IT News Online – Fujitsu and Osaka University intensify joint research and development for fault-tolerant quantum computers

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TOKYO, October 1, 2021 – (JCN Newswire) – Osaka University and Fujitsu Limited today announced the establishment of the Fujitsu Quantum Computing Joint Research Division as a joint research division at the Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology (hereinafter QIQB) at Osaka University.

The newly established research area will focus on developing fundamental technologies for fault-tolerant quantum computers that are able to perform accurate calculations while correcting errors that occur in quantum bits (qubits). These efforts will build on the respective strengths of the two partners and combine QIQB’s advanced quantum error correction and quantum software technologies with Fujitsu’s applied knowledge of computational and quantum technologies.

Specifically, QIQB and Fujitsu want to develop quantum software for fault-tolerant quantum computers with up to several thousand qubits as well as technologies for verifying their error correction operations.

In the future, the two partners will intensify their cooperation in research and development for the realization of fault-tolerant quantum computer technologies in order to develop innovative solutions for complex social problems through quantum technology.

background

Quantum computers that leverage the principles of quantum mechanics, including quantum superpositions and quantum entanglement (1), have the potential to one day revolutionize computing and significantly surpass the capabilities of conventional computing technologies to perform high-speed computations.

Fault tolerant quantum computing, which enables high-speed, accurate and large-scale computations using error correction codes, could become a key technology, especially in drug discovery and finance fields, requiring technology capable of solving complex and large-scale problems at high speed.

In March 2020, Osaka University established QIQB to promote quantum information and quantum biology research, focusing on research in a variety of areas ranging from quantum computers, quantum information fusion, quantum information devices, quantum communication and security, quantum measurement and sensing, and quantum biology.

QIQB has also been selected as the main center for quantum software research in the field of quantum technology of the COI-NEXT program (2) of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), thus playing an important role in Japan’s strategy for quantum technology innovation.
In cooperation with domestic and foreign research institutes, Fujitsu has been engaged in extensive research and development of quantum computers since 2020 with the aim of further improving the performance of computer technologies.

Fujitsu uses its quantum-inspired computer solution (3) “Digital Annealer”, which is intended to solve large-scale combinatorial optimization problems, and offers its customers solutions in various areas such as drug discovery and logistics.

In October 2020, Fujitsu started joint research (4) with Osaka University on quantum error correction. The establishment of the “Fujitsu Quantum Computing Joint Research Unit” will further strengthen research and development in the field of fault-tolerant quantum computer systems.

Outline of joint research
1. Name: Fujitsu Quantum Computing Joint Research Division
2. Location: Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology (QIQB), International Advanced Research Institute (IARI), Osaka University (Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture)
3. Research period: October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2024
4. Research content: R&D of quantum software for fault-tolerant quantum computers

* Starting with a quantum computer several thousand qubits in size, the joint department will research and develop an error correction algorithm capable of recovering the original information from defective qubits, as well as technologies for evaluating the performance of this algorithm.
* In order to perform quantum calculations with logical qubits (5) generated by quantum error correction codes, the joint department focuses on R&D and the implementation of a range of software solutions required from program input to result output.

In addition, with a view to future practical applications of this technology, the business area will verify the operation of these solutions against a virtual machine environment to evaluate the effects of noise.

Roles and responsibilities

Osaka University
– Contribute to further R&D in the field of quantum error correction technology on a scale of several thousand qubits based on his knowledge of quantum error correction technology
– Development of a set of software necessary for performing quantum computations on logical qubits and verification of their application in a virtual machine

Fujitsu
– Generation of quantum error correction algorithms for quantum computers on a scale of several thousand qubits based on his computing expertise
– Development of a range of software necessary for performing quantum computations with logical qubits; Applying the software to a virtual machine and checking its operation

future plans

To contribute to the advancement of quantum computing science and technology, Osaka University and Fujitsu will intensify their collaboration with a variety of research institutions and companies. Through the practical application of the results of this joint research, the partners want to contribute to an early practical application of quantum computing with the potential to drive innovation and create a sustainable society.

Osaka University and Fujitsu University will also work with related industries and the academic world to support the education of new human resources in the field of quantum technology.

All company or product names mentioned here are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. The information in this press release is correct as of the date of publication and is subject to change without notice.

(1) quantum entanglement:
Quantum mechanical phenomenon of nonlocal correlations between two distant systems
(2) COI-NEXT:
Industry-science cooperation program in which universities and other organizations take the lead in formulating a vision for a future society. The aim of this program is to promote ongoing research and development to make this vision a reality, as well as to create an independent, collaborative unit of industry, academia and government officials that can deliver results even after the project is completed. In 2020, QIQB was selected as the international research center for policy-focused areas (quantum technology) of the program. (Quantum Information and Quantum Life Research Center, Osaka University (QIQB) HP)
(3) Quantum-Inspired Technology:
A range of acceleration technologies inspired by quantum technology but not quantum effects.
(4) Joint research on quantum error correction:
“Fujitsu begins joint research with world-leading institutions for innovations in quantum computing” (press release of October 13, 2020)
(5) Logical qubits:
Qubits that can perform logical quantum operations without errors. Logical qubits are created by encoding multiple qubits with a code that can correct quantum error codes.

About Osaka University

Osaka University was founded in 1931 as one of the seven imperial universities in Japan and is now one of the leading comprehensive universities in Japan with a wide range of subjects. This strength is paired with a unique drive for innovation that extends across the entire scientific process, from basic research to the development of applied technologies with positive economic effects. Her commitment to innovation has been recognized in Japan and around the world and was named Japan’s Most Innovative University in 2015 (Reuters 2015 Top 100) and one of the world’s most innovative institutions in 2017 (Innovative Universities and the Nature Index Innovation 2017). . Now Osaka University is leveraging its role as the Designated National University Corporation selected by the Department of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology to contribute to innovation for human well-being, sustainable society development and social change. https://resou.osaka-u.ac.jp/en

About Fujitsu

Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company, offering a full range of technology products, solutions and services. Around 126,000 Fujitsu employees support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated sales of 3.6 trillion yen (34 billion US dollars) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021. You can find more information at www.fujitsu.com.

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