VTT Technical research centre of Finland is a key Nordic player in developing quantum technologies. Finland has a unique quantum ecosystem that is focused on research and development of emerging quantum technologies, and VTT is right in the heart of it. At VTT, we are exploring the potential impact of quantum technologies together with our partners and customers. Our primary focus lies in developing technologies to scale up quantum computers and eventually enable quantum advantage.
Finland has a unique quantum ecosystem which started emerging already in the 1960s when Olli Lounasmaa established the cold physics laboratory at Aalto university. Today, thanks to companies like IQM and Bluefors, Finland is one of the few countries in the world that can build a quantum computer with domestic expertise. At VTT, we have been developing superconductive technologies for over thirty years for commercial applications.
Technologies to scale up quantum computer hardware
At VTT, we develop HW technologies to scale up quantum computers. Our R&D activities for quantum computer hardware include development of superconductive technologies, 3D integration methods, interfacing circuits to intermediate temperatures, as well as enabling technologies. Some of the most fascinating projects we are currently working on include bringing on-chip coolers from the research state to industry ready. The development of JoFETs that can be used to develop superconductive logic, and the development of electro-optical components.
Thanks to our in-house R&D cleanroom and testing capacities, we have the capability to quickly design and fabricate new microelectronics devices. We have capabilities to fabricate and mix and match different technology platforms, including superconductive, semiconducting, integrated photonics, detectors and MEMS technologies. We also have extensive cryogenic measurement infrastructure that enables us to develop and test new superconducting qubits and other cryogenic components.
In-house quantum computers
Today we have in-house 5- and 20-qubit quantum computers, co-developed with our current innovation partner IQM. We are in the process of upgrading the 20-qubit one to 50-qubits, and that work should be ready during 2024. The 5-qubit quantum computer is connected to CSC’s LUMI supercomputer, which makes it possible for us and for our partners and clients to experiment with hybrid algorithms and develop use-case specific quantum computer software.
In addition, we have recently started to look for an innovation partner to scale up Finland’s next quantum computer, aiming towards 300 qubits. In the innovative co-development project, VTT will also be researching methods for how the developed quantum computer can be optimised for solving mathematical problems typical for new material development.
Focus on material modelling on quantum computing side
VTT helps to accelerate the development of quantum technology and unlocks new opportunities for innovation and growth. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize a range of industries from finance and healthcare to cybersecurity and logistics. Our focus in quantum computing side is within algorithm development for material and synthetic biology applications. We will also be looking for possibilities to optimize the next quantum computer development mentioned earlier for solving material modeling purposes.
VTT is a central player in quantum technology both in Europe and in Finland
VTT plays a significant role in the European Quantum Flagship program, serving as the coordinator for Qu-Pilot and as a partner in Qu-test and OpenSuperQ+. In Finland, we are coordinating the construction of the Finnish quantum Key Distribution (QKD) test network NaQCi.fi.
In Finland, we are part of InstituteQ, the Finnish quantum institute, and serve as the operational leader for BusinessQ quantum business ecosystem in Finland.
VTT’s innovations have a central role in revolutionizing industries – let’s join forces
We want to lead the way in the development of quantum technology and constantly seek out new challenges. Reach out to us and let’s collaborate and brainstorm on how to pool our resources and expertise to create cutting-edge quantum technology innovations for you or together with you. Let’s work towards shaping the future of quantum technology together. www.vttresearch.com
Contact us:
Piia Konstari, Lead, microelectronics and quantum technology
Pekka Pursula, Research manager, microelectronics and quantum technology