University of Iowa Technology Institute researcher secures nearly $1 million grant to advance quantum computing

Fatima Toor, the Lowell G. Battershell Chair in Laser Engineering at the University of Iowa, has been awarded a $999,985 grant aimed at advancing the development of next-generation computing technologies.

According to a release, quantum computing represents a frontier in computational power, capable of performing complex calculations and exploring numerous possibilities simultaneously – tasks that far exceed the capabilities of traditional processors found in everyday devices like laptops and smartphones.

The burgeoning field of quantum information science and engineering (QISE) is recognized as pivotal for the future, with the potential to significantly enhance U.S. scientific research, economic growth, and national security.

However, considerable challenges persist in transforming quantum computing from a theoretical concept into a practical resource accessible to a wider array of users.

“The building blocks of quantum computers are qubits,” said Ms. Toor, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering and faculty affiliate of the Iowa Technology Institute. “These qubits are typically based on superconducting materials that operate best at really low temperatures – liquid helium (He) temperatures – in a dilution refrigerator.”

Highlighted a critical challenge in quantum computing, she said even minor energy disruptions caused by stray infrared light can introduce unwanted heat into refrigeration systems, resulting in significant noise during qubit operations and affecting their response times.

Supported by the Department of Energy’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR), Ms. Toor’s research is centered on developing novel metamaterial coatings designed to adhere to multiple layers within dilution refrigerators.

These innovative coatings aim to minimize infrared photon leakage and potentially extend the coherence times of qubit operations, paving the way for more reliable quantum computing technologies.

“This research project directly impacts the QISE industry by bringing quantum computers closer to practical applications with improved signal-to-noise ratio,” she said, adding project funding will also support workforce training to support the industry.

The project was part of a distribution of $36 million for 39 research projects in 19 states under EPSCoR.