Microsoft to open quantum research center at the University of Maryland

Microsoft has plans to open a new quantum research center at the University of Maryland’s Discovery District in College Park, aiming to bring together government agencies, researchers, and private companies to advance the technology from theory to more practical applications, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore announced Wednesday.

The facility aims to give researchers access to cutting-edge quantum hardware and software, like Microsoft’s experimental Majorana 1 quantum chip, which is built from special materials designed to make qubits, the basic unit of quantum information, much more stable and less prone to errors.

The move is part of Maryland’s broader strategy to become a national leader in quantum information science and builds on the state’s Capital of Quantum Initiative, a $52.5 million investment launched in January, paired with $70 million from universities and private partners.

“Maryland is making big bets on the future to grow our economy and drive innovation. Quantum is at the center of that strategy,” Gov. Moore said in a statement about the partnership. 

In April, Maryland also partnered with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Defense Department’s research and development arm, to launch the Quantum Benchmarking Hub and create common standards for measuring progress — a project that could unlock up to $100 million in matching federal funds.

Quantum computers will be able to solve problems that would overwhelm today’s fastest supercomputers, which will have significant implications for cybersecurity, pharmaceuticals, climate modeling, logistics and beyond. Though the field is still experimental, Ken Ulman, chief strategy officer for the University of Maryland, said that by 2030, quantum computing is going to “emerge as relevant in people’s lives.”

“There’s a lot of conversation now about artificial intelligence, post-quantum encryption, the set of rules and the regulatory environment that are needed for a quantum world,” Ulman told StateScoop. “The world needs to be prepared for when quantum technology breaks through, and Maryland really can become the leader in being able to navigate the future in a more forward-leaning way.”

Maryland isn’t alone. States across the U.S. are increasingly putting money, policy, and infrastructure behind quantum computing.

Earlier this month, New Mexico announced a partnership with DARPA on quantum networking projects. Illinois has also invested heavily in its Chicago Quantum Exchange. And Colorado and Utah are funding labs that connect quantum research with national defense and aerospace.

“Quantum is going to be common knowledge, or at least everyone on the planet is going to be aware of the importance of quantum technology,” Ulman said. “And that’s why there’s this race right now, where these few ecosystems in our country and around the world are emerging, because it’s happening so quickly. The pivotal time is right now.”