EPFL, Withwave, Zurich Instruments, and SKKU partner up to advance quantum-limited amplification technology
Zurich, Switzerland | 15 October 2024 — In a new initiative, Zurich Instruments has teamed up with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Withwave, and Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) to enhance the performance and market-readiness of quantum limited amplification technology. The strategic partnership aims to elevate the capabilities of traveling-wave parametric amplifiers (TWPAs), which are essential for the precise readout of qubits and the scaling up of quantum computing technologies.
Quantum computing relies heavily on accurate qubit readout to function efficiently. TWPAs are the leading technology for this purpose, allowing even the largest superconducting quantum processors today to achieve near-quantum-limited readout.
By focusing on advanced development to improve performance, minimize back-action, and enhance integration, the new Q-LAEP project (Quantum-Limited Amplifiers with Engineered Pump) seeks to propel TWPA technology to new heights, catering to the rapid scale-up of quantum computing.
The collaboration unites world-class expertise: EPFL’s prowess in TWPA development, Withwave’s specialization in RF engineering and integration, Zurich Instruments’ leadership in control systems, and SKKU’s cutting-edge quantum processor operations.
The partnership strengthens technological leadership in both Korea and 
Switzerland and exemplifies the power of international collaboration, merging the strengths of academia and industry to push the boundaries of quantum computing. John Lee, CEO of Withwave, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “At Withwave, we are delighted to collaborate with such prestigious partners and are looking forward to the exciting work ahead. We believe this collaboration will be highly beneficial in advancing quantum computing technologies.”
Zurich Instruments has a history of technological innovation, exemplified by the launch of the first commercial solution for parametric amplifier control, the SHFPPC Parametric Pump Controller. This product enables quantum-limited readout out of the box, making TWPA technology widely accessible. “It’s an honor to engage in this collaboration with strong partners from research and industry. We remain committed to staying at the cutting edge, ensuring that our customers benefit from state-of-the-art readout technology,” says Moritz Kirste, head of business development at Zurich Instruments.
The project is coordinated by the Laboratory of Photonics and Quantum Measurements (LPQM) at EPFL, led by Prof. Tobias J. Kippenberg. LPQM will also take responsibility for TWPA design, fabrication, and performance characterization. “We will continue our commitment to technology transfer, contributing to the growth of the Swiss quantum ecosystem while strengthening ties with South Korea,” says Dr. Marco Scigliuzzo, senior postdoctoral scholar at LPQM and Q-LAEP project manager.
Validation of the TWPA designs in a realistic application setting is critically important and will be carried out at the laboratory of Prof. YoungJae Song at SKKU, a leading institution in the implementation of Korea’s quantum technology strategy. “This Korean-Swiss international collaboration will bring the strength of each team together to make the superconducting quantum technology further scalable and more precise,” says Prof. Song.
About Zurich Instruments
Zurich Instruments is a Swiss company with a passion for phenomena that are often notoriously difficult to measure. We lead the change by providing advanced hardware, software and services for quantum computing control systems, lock-in amplifiers, impedance analyzers, and arbitrary waveform generators. As a company of scientists for scientists, we tackle challenges of research by delivering a wide product portfolio that reduces complexity of laboratory setups, unlocks new measurement strategies and complies to Swiss quality standards. Our commitment to collaborations and real-time support is reflected in seven offices worldwide, numerous research partnerships, and thousands of publications referring to Zurich Instruments. Since 2021, Zurich Instruments is a part of the Rohde & Schwarz and continues its scale up ambitions to advance science and accelerate the second quantum revolution.
About Withwave
Withwave Co., Ltd. is a South Korean company specializing in designing and producing advanced Microwave and high-speed signal transmission components. Our innovative products serve diverse applications, including telecommunications, semiconductor, and quantum computing. Recognized as a global leader in ultra-wideband coaxial transmission line technology (DC to 145 GHz), we supply high-performance connectors and cable assemblies worldwide through distributors like Digi-Key and Amazon. Withwave is also pioneering next-generation technologies by developing cutting-edge microwave components and modules for quantum computing and space systems.
About EPFL – Prof. Kippenberg’s Group
The Laboratory of Photonics and Quantum Measurements (LPQM) at EPFL, led by Professor Tobias J. Kippenberg, is a leading research group exploring the frontier of light and matter interactions. Their work combines cutting-edge photonics with quantum technologies, advancing both fundamental science and practical applications. LPQM has made significant breakthroughs, such as developing microresonators that enable ultra-broadband optical frequency combs, now essential for next-generation atomic clocks, spectroscopy, and ultra data transmission. The lab has also pioneered quantum optomechanics, studying how light can manipulate mechanical motion at the quantum level, and has contributed to the development of superconducting circuits for quantum information processing. These innovations open doors to quantum sensing, quantum computing, and advanced measurement techniques.
About SKKU – Prof. YoungJae Song’s Group
SAINT (SKKU Advanced Institute of Nano Technology) is a strategically established core institute of the SungKyunKwan University (SKKU), aiming for the excellence in convergence technology including the field of quantum, nano-bio and sustainable energy. The research team led by Professor Young Jae Song covers wide range of quantum science and technology, from low temperature measurement in atomic scale to wafer scale quantum device fabrication in QFab, precise qubit characterization and measurement techniques of multi-qubit device at milli-Kelvin, supported by theory and device modeling in parallel. The team developed Josephson junction based large-scale qubit devices and high fidelity multiplexed single-shot measurement of the qubits. These will be extended to the TWPA research of this project. The capabilities of SKKU now play the essential role in the national quantum computing project of Korea.
Press contact
Zurich Instruments
Technoparkstrasse 1,
8005 Zürich, Switzerland.
Application Scientist Quantum Technologies
Dr. Natasha Tomm
natasha.tomm@zhinst.com
Country Manager Korea
Il-Nam Yeom
ilnam.yeom@zhinst.com
