Resources & Access
Expertise — Through in-house specialists, the Fellows program, and partnerships with leading quantum companies, QLab provides users with access to the expertise needed to quickly explore and optimize potential solutions for target applications.
System Access — QLab currently provides privileged access to different quantum computing systems:
- IonQ ion-trap quantum computers: Access to Forte and Forte-Enterprise quantum processing units, featuring 36 qubits with high-fidelity gates, long coherence times, and all-to-all connectivity.
- IBM Quantum superconducting quantum computers: Access to Heron (156 qubits) and Nighthawk (120 qubits) quantum processing units with fast, high-fidelity gates. Heron's heavy-hex lattice topology reduces cross-talk errors, while Nighthawk's square-lattice topology offers higher native connectivity.
- QuEra neutral-atom quantum computers: Access to Aquila, QuEra’s 256-qubit analog quantum simulator, featuring programmable atom arrangements and time-dependent laser controls for quantum simulation and optimization. Access to Gemini, QuEra’s 260-qubit gate-model system and quantum-error-correction testbed, is expected to follow.
- Research ion-trap quantum computer: Hosted in the lab of Dr. Alaina Green and Prof. Norbert Linke at the University of Maryland’s Joint Quantum Institute, this system offers high-fidelity operations, up to nine qubits, all-to-all connectivity, pulse-level control, and access to the motional modes of the ion chain.
- To come: QLab continues to expand access to quantum computing systems and will soon provide connectivity to the Mid-Atlantic Quantum Internet (MARQI), creating a testbed for quantum-networking applications.
Global User Program
Members of the worldwide open-science community are supported through QLab's Global User Program. We support users pursuing projects that would not be possible or productive without significant access to cutting-edge quantum computing systems with
- up to the equivalent of $250,000 in commercial compute credits per project,
- expertise on application implementations, device specifics, and noise models,
- as well as research collaboration.
QLab encourages high-risk, high-reward projects that have the potential to open new vistas of possible applications and result in high-impact publications.
QLab Fellowships in Mid-Atlantic Quantum Alliance
Principal investigators at member institutions of the Mid-Atlantic Quantum Alliance with sustained interested in leveraging quantum computing technology for their research are invited to become QLab Fellows to obtain privileged access to QLab resources.
Seed Grant Program at UMD
The University of Maryland and IonQ, a leading developer of quantum computing devices, have teamed up to provide funding for projects designed to advance discoveries in quantum science and aid in developing a skilled quantum computing workforce for the future. UMD researchers and educators are invited to submit proposals for projects that leverage QLab resources for
- research to develop algorithms or simulations that explore new uses for quantum computing,
- curriculum development including student projects, courses, and teaching methods or modules that enable students to learn practical quantum computing skills.
Commercial Use
Users seeking proprietary use of QLab resources to advance commercial development can apply for access through a partnership with the Quantum Startup Foundry or through sponsored projects through the University of Maryland.