ANU in Canberra eyes onsite quantum computer with Fujitsu

Fujitsu Australia and The Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra have teamed up to ensure that industry and government professionals, researchers, academics, and students in Australia will soon have access to a world-class quantum research facility. 

The partnership, made formal with the signing of a memorandum of understanding, is intended to see the two organisations 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 ANU to capitalise on the future opportunities and applications of quantum technologies for the benefit of local organisations and the global community.

“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,” said Graeme Beardsell, Fujitsu EVP and CEO in Oceania. “This is about more than just technology; it’s about unlocking the next wave of innovation.”

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 1,000 qubits within the fiscal year that ends on March 31, 2026, cementing ANU’s ongoing access to the latest in cutting-edge quantum technology.

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

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

The on-site 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.

ANU deputy vice-chancellor Lachlan Blackhall said 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.

Blackhall said the collaboration with Fujitsu “promises to build on the university’s strengths in quantum optical physics and quantum algorithms.”