A team of researchers from the University of Sussex and Universal Quantum have made a breakthrough in quantum computing that could pave the way for the development of more powerful computers capable of tackling complex societal problems. In a research paper published in Nature Communications, the team demonstrated the use of electric field links to enable quantum bits, or qubits, to move between microchip modules with unprecedented speed and precision. This modular approach allows the chips to be connected together to create a more powerful quantum computer.
As quantum computers grow, they will eventually be constrained by the size of the microchip, limiting the number of qubits they can accommodate. The modular approach demonstrated by the team could allow hundreds or even thousands of quantum computing microchips to be connected together to build more powerful computers capable of tackling more significant problems.
Dr Sebastian Weidt, CEO and Co-founder of Universal Quantum, said that the new technique showed the “remarkable potential” of the company’s quantum computers to become powerful enough to unlock the many life-changing applications of quantum computing. Universal Quantum has just been awarded €67 million from the German Aerospace Center to build two quantum computers, where they will deploy this technology as part of the contract.
The team was led by Dr Mariam Akhtar during her time as Research Fellow at the University of Sussex and Quantum Advisor at Universal Quantum. Professor Sasha Roseneil, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sussex, called the breakthrough “phenomenal” and said it took them a significant step closer to a quantum computer that will be of real societal use. Quantum computers are set to have boundless applications, from improving the development of medicines to unlocking solutions to the climate crisis.
The University of Sussex is investing significantly in quantum computing to support its ambition to host the world’s most powerful quantum computers and create change that has the potential to positively impact people across the world. Professor Keith Jones, Interim Provost and Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise at the University of Sussex, said that the finding proved the value and dynamism of the university’s spin-out company, whose work is grounded in rigorous and world-leading academic research.
