IBM Partnering with University of Tokyo on Quantum Computer

TOKYO — IBM and the University of Tokyo have unveiled one of the “most powerful” quantum computers in Japan.

IBM Quantum System One is part of the Japan-IBM Quantum Partnership between the University of Tokyo and IBM to “advance Japan’s exploration of quantum science, business, and education,” according to IBM last month.

IBM Quantum System One is now operational for researchers at both scientific institutions and businesses in Japan, with access administered by the University of Tokyo. 

“IBM is committed to the growth of the global quantum ecosystem and fostering collaboration between different research communities,” said Dr. Dario Gil, director, IBM Research.

The quantum computer gives users access to repeatable and predictable performance from high-quality qubits and high-precision control electronics, with quantum resources coupled with classical processing, according to IBM. Users can securely run algorithms requiring repetition of quantum circuits in the cloud. 

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The IBM Quantum System One in Japan is the second system of its kind by IBM to be built outside the U.S. In June, IBM unveiled an IBM Quantum System One in Munich, Germany, which is administered by Fraunhofer Geselleschaft, a scientific research organization.

IBM’s quantum efforts are intended to help advance quantum computing and develop a skilled quantum workforce worldwide.

Gil is “excited to see the contributions to research that will be made by Japan’s world-class academic, private sector, and government institutions.”

“Together, we can take major steps to accelerate scientific progress in a variety of fields,” Gil said.

Teruo Fujii, president of the University of Tokyo, said that in the “rapidly changing field of quantum technology, it is extremely important not only to develop quantum technology-related elements and systems, but also to foster the next generation of human resources in order to achieve advanced social implementation on a global scale.” 

“Our university has a broad base of research talents and has been always promoting high-level quantum education from the undergraduate level. Now, we will further refine the development of the next generation of quantum native skill sets by utilizing IBM Quantum System One.”

In 2020, IBM and the University of Tokyo launched the Quantum Innovation Initiative Consortium (QIIC), with the goal of strategically accelerating quantum computing research and development activities in Japan by bringing together academic talent from across the country’s universities, research associations, and industry. 

In the last year, IBM has also announced partnerships that include a focus on quantum information science and technology with several organizations: the Cleveland Clinic, the U.K.’s Science and Technologies Facilities Council, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

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