The University of Maryland will soon be home to a major new Microsoft quantum research lab, further strengthening the university’s position as a global leader in quantum science, innovation and commercialization. Gov. Wes Moore announced the project on Sept. 17 while addressing hundreds gathered for the Quantum World Congress (QWC), a global event focused on the future of quantum science and innovation held in Tysons, Va.
The announcement results from a partnership between the state of Maryland, the University of Maryland Enterprise Corporation and Microsoft, one of the world’s largest technology firms, and marks a critical milestone in Maryland’s momentum toward becoming a global leader for quantum information science and technology innovation.
“Maryland is making big bets on the future to grow our economy and drive innovation. Quantum is at the center of that strategy,” said Moore. “We are honored to partner with Microsoft in this effort, as we work together to create jobs, spark discovery and stimulate growth. And together, we will continue to make Maryland the best place in the world to change the world.”
According to the announcement from the governor’s office, the center will provide early access to Microsoft’s quantum technology to support collaborative hardware and software development between government agencies, academic institutions and quantum companies. It will also attract skilled quantum experts to the state, providing a space for Microsoft engineers to interact and work with the Maryland quantum ecosystem, including University of Maryland students and researchers.
“This is a landmark moment for the University of Maryland and for the entire state,” said UMD President Darryll J. Pines, who also delivered an address at QWC. “The launch of Microsoft’s advanced quantum lab in our Discovery District is a testament to the incredible momentum we’ve built in quantum science and innovation. It reflects years of world-class research, visionary investment and bold collaboration that together have made Maryland and the greater D.C. region the true Capital of Quantum. We are proud to work alongside Gov. Moore, Microsoft and our federal partners to drive the next wave of quantum breakthroughs—and to do it right here in College Park.”
The University of Maryland is a top-ranked public research university and home to one of the world’s most vibrant quantum ecosystems. This includes the Joint Center for Quantum Information and Computer Science (QuICS) and the NSF Quantum Leap Challenge Institute for Robust Quantum Simulation (RQS).
Both QuICS and RQS receive significant administrative and technical support from the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (UMIACS).