Research Areas

Quantum Computing

Quantum computing’s distinct power exploits properties unavailable to classical computers. Once fully developed, quantum computers will be able to leverage those properties to efficiently solve scientific and technological problems that are impossible even for today’s most powerful supercomputers. Chicago Quantum Exchange researchers are working to design hardware and software that will help make these advantages of quantum computing possible.

Chicago Quantum Exchange scientists focus on multiple aspects of advancing quantum computing, from the underlying platforms and technologies for quantum computers to the software to run these computers. Some Chicago Quantum Exchange scientists focus their quantum computing research on developing better quantum bits (qubits), the building blocks of quantum computing. By translating fundamental quantum information science into practical technologies across computing and security, CQE researchers create and improve technologies for all types of qubits including superconducting, atomic, color defect, rare earth, and others. By focusing on both the near- and long-term future, computer scientists from member institutions are developing efficient quantum computing software to correspond with the hardware that will be available in the next few years. For example, scientists are investigating how the principles of quantum entanglement may replace current encryption and are playing an essential role in designing the software and algorithms that will make early-stage quantum computers and devices a functional reality. These technologies could lead to significant breakthroughs in many fields, speeding up the search for new pharmaceuticals, developing better artificial intelligence, and enabling new processing tools for scientific researchers.