QLab and IonQ expand collaboration to advance quantum networking and research

We are thrilled to announce a major expansion of our partnership with IonQ. Through a new $7.5 million agreement funded by the State of Maryland’s Capital of Quantum initiative, QLab is significantly increasing its quantum computing capacity and introducing a major new focus area: quantum networking.

“This expanded agreement strengthens the QLab as a premier testbed for quantum networking and computing and deepens opportunities for our faculty and students to work hands-on with industry-leading systems,” said University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines. “Building on our strong relationship with IonQ through the QLab is critical to advancing discovery, developing talent and reinforcing Maryland’s position as the Capital of Quantum.”

The expansion is designed to scale research capacity across four core elements:

• Quantum Memory Node Deployment: Positioning QLab as a leading testbed for next-generation distributed quantum computing, IonQ will deploy its first silicon vacancy (SiV)-based quantum memory node. This cutting-edge hardware will strengthen the Mid-Atlantic Region Quantum Internet (MARQI) network, enabling researchers to build and test new applications.
• Increased QLab Compute Access: To meet the rapidly growing demand from the UMD community and QLab partners, IonQ will provide additional quantum compute resources, broadening access to its commercial-grade quantum systems.
• Joint Applications Research: The collaboration will boost applied research efforts through directed projects, strengthening ties between UMD faculty and IonQ scientists to explore near- and mid-term applications like quantum machine learning and holographic error-correcting codes.
• Advanced Experimental Hardware Upgrades: The agreement includes joint development of a specialized new laser system to enable mid-circuit measurements on QLab’s experimental ion-trap systems. This upgrade will directly support new algorithms and experiments within the Quantum Thermodynamics Hub.

Quantum networking is widely recognized as a critical next step beyond standalone quantum computing. By laying the foundation for distributed quantum computers and advanced quantum sensor networks, QLab is preparing the workforce for the future of the technology.

“By strengthening our collaboration with IonQ, we are building new capabilities that will drive discovery, expand access for our researchers, and prepare the next generation of quantum leaders to shape the future,” said Dr. Gretchen Campbell, Associate Vice President for Quantum Research and Education at UMD.

Supported by the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) and the Capital of Quantum initiative, this expansion reinforces QLab's mission to serve as a nexus where top-tier academic research and commercial quantum innovation meet.