Working with US and Northern Irish researchers, the SFI Connect centre aims to link quantum computers together to boost their computational power.
A partnership between research centres in the US and Ireland has received new funding to create at least 10 research positions and investigate the creation of a quantum internet.
The partnership involves four research centres including Connect, the Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) centre based in Trinity College Dublin. The combined investment of €3m aims to push research into quantum computers forward.
Quantum computers have the potential to perform many computing tasks faster than classical computers. It is believed that in the near future, these machines will solve problems that are impossible for classical computers to solve with today’s computing power.
The international partnership believes that linking quantum computers together over a quantum internet will lead to even greater computational power compared to individual quantum computers. A quantum internet could also enhance cybersecurity and lead to higher resolution sensors.
The Convergent Quantum Research Alliance in Telecommunications includes Connect, the US Center for Quantum Networks and the Quantum Technology group at Queen’s University in Belfast.
Connect director Prof Dan Kilper said the joint project enables the centre’s researchers to shape how “quantum and classical networks” will come together.
“It will also accelerate the transition of quantum technologies from basic science to engineered systems,” Kilper said. “And it’s especially important for us that the project considers the broader societal dimensions of these technologies to help build an inclusive and human centred foundation for the quantum internet.”
SFI deputy director general Dr Ciarán Seoighe said the work from this partnership seeks to address “key questions” in the area of telecoms, along with integrating network technologies and applications.
“I look forward to learning of its progress as it brings together different research communities to help realise the potential for quantum computing and transformative advances in science, industry, economy and society.”
As quantum computing continues to get more advanced, many organisations are preparing for the positive and negative impacts it could have in the future.
Google recently made its Quantum Virtual Machine available to the public free of charge in a bid to help people learn quantum programming skills.
Earlier this month, the US National Institute of Standards and Technology took its first steps toward a new quantum-resistant standard in cryptography. The institute selected four encryption algorithms that are designed to withstand an assault from a quantum computer.
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