Fujitsu and ANU to partner on quantum computing in Australia

Industry and government professionals, researchers, academics and students in Australia will soon have access to a world-class quantum research facility following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Fujitsu Australia and Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra. The agreement will see the two organisations partner to establish a centre for quantum research, with ambitions to build an onsite quantum computer.

Aligning with Australia’s National Quantum Strategy to “invest in, connect and grow Australia’s quantum research and industry to compete with the world’s best”, the MoU sets out a long-term vision for how Fujitsu will partner with one of Australia’s leading tertiary educators to capitalise on the future opportunities and applications of quantum technologies for the benefit of local organisations and the global community. 

As part of the collaboration, Fujitsu will provide ANU researchers and academics with access to Fujitsu’s quantum systems and simulators in Japan. To drive further innovation, Fujitsu, through collaboration with RIKEN, plans to release a 256-qubit quantum computer in March 2025 and a quantum computer with as many as 1000 qubits in fiscal year 2026, cementing ANU’s ongoing access to the latest in cutting-edge quantum technology.

Under the new collaboration, ANU will develop teaching and training modules based on access to Fujitsu’s quantum technologies to further inform the overall approach to research into quantum computing.

On-site quantum computer ambitions

In addition to the exchange of knowledge, the endeavour will also aim to set up an onsite quantum computer at ANU to help local researchers, and government and industry professionals to develop expertise in quantum computers.

The onsite quantum computer will provide Australian professionals with access to local emerging technologies that will enable them to conduct advanced research in fields including cryptography, material science and quantum simulations.

“This collaboration with Fujitsu complements and builds on the ANU mission to further higher education on emerging technologies including quantum computing and will help to foster the growth of a talented pool of quantum computing professionals in Australia,” said Professor Lachlan Blackhall, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) at ANU. “ANU is excited to see this collaboration with Fujitsu, which promises to build on the university’s strengths in quantum optical physics and quantum algorithms.

“More broadly, this dynamic collaboration and the work taking place as part of it will help grow the nation’s commitment to fundamental quantum physics, which is absolutely vital if we are to harness the incredible potential of research and apply it to real-world opportunities for the quantum world.”

“At Fujitsu, we’re innovating for the future of computing. Our investment in quantum research, coupled with strategic collaborations including with ANU, puts us at the forefront of the global race to develop the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computer. This is about more than just technology; it’s about unlocking the next wave of innovation,” said Graeme Beardsell, CEO Asia Pacific, at Fujitsu. “Australia’s commitment to quantum leadership is clear, and Fujitsu is playing our part. We’re not just developing these technologies; we’re sharing them, fostering collaboration and believing that the next quantum breakthrough will come from a global, connected network of brilliant minds who are focused on developing technology for good.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Bartlomiej Wroblewski