Quantum Brilliance, a German-Australian provider of quantum computing hardware and software, announced last Friday a joint research and development hub with La Trobe University and RMIT University.
The newly established Research Hub for Diamond Quantum Materials will focus on enhancing the computational power of diamond-based quantum computers with techniques that can transition to manufacturing systems in large volumes.
Researchers will focus on taking raw materials and synthesising, with atomic precision, the core quantum systems of 'high-performance, scalable' diamond-based quantum microprocessors.
“Through our partnership with La Trobe University and RMIT University, we will develop the fabrication techniques necessary to enhance the performance of diamond-based quantum computers to deliver real-world solutions to a broad spectrum of industries,” said Dr Marcus Doherty, co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Quantum Brilliance. “The hub is another example of our collaborative research efforts to advance diamond-based quantum technology and deliver economic benefit to Australia in the years to come.”
The hub is already pursuing several concurrent projects that are pioneering new diamond fabrication techniques. These multi-million dollar Australian-based projects are partially funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC) and Quantum Brilliance.
Complementary research being undertaken in Germany by Quantum Brilliance and the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF and the University Ulm was also announced in January. The research hub is designed to not only make great strides in developing synthetic diamond accelerators but to create a network of experts in diamond material science for future industry advancements in both countries.
La Trobe University Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Industry Engagement), Professor Chris Pakes said the partnership will leverage both universities’ expertise in diamond growth, surface imaging and engineering, and combine it with Quantum Brilliance’s strong industry experience and manufacturing capabilities.
“All three organisations have world-leading expertise and resources in diamond material sciences – making the hub well placed to develop innovative new approaches to advanced manufacturing in this important future industry,” Professor Pakes said.
RMIT Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation and Vice-President, Professor Calum Drummond, said collaborations like this are vital in supporting future industries. “We value this opportunity to support development of new technology, which will in turn grow new businesses here in Victoria,” Professor Drummond said. “Bringing researchers together to support growth in a new local industry is precisely the type of mission we are geared towards.”
Friday's announcement was made on the final day of a joint workshop uniting participants from both universities with Quantum Brilliance’s team members from Germany and Australia involved in the program. The multi-day workshop aimed to build relationships, share technical knowledge and lay the foundation for successful implementation of the upcoming projects.