Microsoft, IBM, Horizon Quantum Computing, Algorithmiq, and Moody’s Analytics are all joining Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland as founding partners of the Trinity Quantum Alliance (TQA), which intends to be a catalyst for investment in quantum technology in Ireland, as well as for the creation of a vibrant ecosystem to the benefit of various industry sectors.
The TQA bears a resemblance to other industry-driven groups in other countries, like the Australian Quantum Alliance, for example. These groups play an important development role, providing input as governments in the countries are preparing their national quantum strategies.
With Trinity College’s involvement, the TQA also will ensure the growth of a quantum-skilled workforce in Ireland. As the TQA press release noted, “The TQA ecosystem is powered by high-skilled graduates, educated via the Trinity MSc for Quantum Science and Technology and by a shared PhD programme. Thus, the TQA is responding to a growing demand for high-skilled quantum experts, the true engine for the quantum revolution. This activity will take place alongside the other research pillars of the alliance, which include quantum networks, high performance computing integration and fundamental quantum science.”
Executives from the companies involved who commented on the announcement included James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Lead and Vice President of Microsoft Global Operations Service Center, who said, “Microsoft has enjoyed a long partnership with the team at Trinity and in recent years this has been strengthened through our combined focus on accelerating advancements in next-generation quantum technologies and attracting and training future world-leaders in the field.”
Dr Joe Fitzsimons, CEO of Horizon Quantum Computing, a native of Ireland, and a speaker at IQT events, stated”We believe that the TQA will provide a significant boost to the quantum ecosystem in Ireland and intend to play an active role in the initiative as we build up our presence here.”
Fitzsimons late last year announced that Horizon, based in Singapore, would be opening its European office in Dublin.
Image caption: Romeo Radanyi, Director, Quantum Architecture, Moody’s Analytics; Dr Joe Fitzsimons, CEO, Horizon Quantum Computing; James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Lead and Vice President of Microsoft Global Operations Service Center; Professor Sinéad Ryan, Dean of Research, Trinity College Dublin; Dr Linda Doyle, Provost, Trinity College Dublin; Dr Juan Bernabe-Moreno, Director, IBM Research Europe – Ireland and UK; Professor Stefano Sanvito, Director of CRANN; Professor John Goold, Director of Trinity Quantum Alliance; Professor Sabrina Maniscalco, CEO and Co-Founder, Algorithmiq.
Dan O’Shea has covered telecommunications and related topics including semiconductors, sensors, retail systems, digital payments and quantum computing/technology for over 25 years.