DOE announces $ 73 million for research to advance quantum science and technology

Newswise – WASHINGTON, DC. – The US Department of Energy (DOE) announced funding of $ 73 million to advance quantum information science (QIS) research to help scientists better understand the physical world and harness nature for the benefit of people and society. The 29 projects announced today will study the materials and chemical processes needed to develop the next generation of quantum smart devices and quantum computing technology, essential tools for solving the most pressing and complex challenges, from climate change to national security.

“Quantum science represents the next technological revolution and the next frontier in the information age, and America is at the forefront,” said Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm. “At DOE, we are investing in basic research, led by universities and our national laboratories, that will improve our resilience in the face of growing cyber threats and climate disasters, paving the way for a cleaner and safer future. “

QIS is helping researchers discover new ways to measure, analyze, process and communicate information and is expected to lead the next generation of computing and information processing. Potential applications of this work range from quantum computers to enable complex power prediction to prevent blackouts during extreme weather events, to quantum devices to enable new smart windows, clothing, and buildings that can change their properties at home. request.

Today’s funding announcement totals $ 73 million for projects lasting up to three years. Fellows will conduct fundamental research to understand, predict and ultimately control matter and energy at the electronic, atomic and molecular levels. These projects include the control of atomic defects, the light-matter interaction and the transfer of coherent quantum information.

“The advancement of quantum information science will support both our national security and our economy. I am pleased that Dartmouth researchers continue to be at the forefront of innovation, and I will continue to work on a bipartite basis to invest in quantum research ”, said US Senator Maggie Hassan.
“Unlocking the potential of quantum information science and quantum computing is crucial these days. This funding for California-based research projects will help bring us closer to the interpretation and use of the untapped power and efficiency of a quantum system. With the many challenges we face, quantum computing represents an exciting potential avenue, ”said US Senator Alex Padilla.

“Our higher education institutions in Hampton Roads are at the forefront of pioneering research. I am proud to help secure funding for our universities to ensure that the United States remains the world leader in scientific discovery, ”said US Representative Elaine Luria.

“Researchers at UMass Lowell have carried out cutting-edge work, particularly in materials science such as quantum mechanics, and have strengthened the reputation of the university as a leading research institution. This Department of Energy award is a testament to their work and will be instrumental in the progress UMass Lowell is making on some of the greatest challenges we face, ”said United States Representative Lori Trahan.

The projects were chosen on the basis of a peer review within the framework of the DOE Funding Opportunity Announcement, “Materials and Chemical Sciences Research for Quantum Information Science,” reporting to the DOE Bureau of Science, Basic Energy Sciences (BES). the The efforts of the DOE Science Office in QIS are informed by community contributions and target mission-driven applications including quantum computing, quantum simulation, quantum communication and quantum sensing. The DOE Science Office supports five QIS National Research Centers and a diverse portfolio of research projects that includes recent awards to advance QIS in areas related to Nuclear physics and fusion energy science.

A list of selected projects can be found here.