University of Tokyo Gets Its Own IBM Quantum System One

By Becky Bracken

Pushing growth in the quantum computing ecosphere is what will help grow technologies into real-world problem solvers. And providing academics and private researchers access to the best available systems is the best way to kickstart innovation.

IBM Quantum is hoping to accelerate development with its latest installation of a IBM Quantum System One at the University of Tokyo. The System One will be made available to public and private researchers throughout Japan. This is just the second System One outside the U.S.

“IBM is committed to the growth of the global quantum ecosystem and fostering collaboration between different research communities,” Dr. Dario Gil, Senior Vice President and Director of IBM Research said. “As part of this global effort, I am proud to be unveiling Japan’s most powerful quantum computer and excited to see the contributions to research that will be made by Japan’s world-class academic, private sector and government institutions. Together, we can take major steps to accelerate scientific progress in a variety of fields.”

The University of Tokyo and its Quantum Innovation Consortium, launched in 2020, has committed to develop quantum computing talent throughout the country. The deployment of the IBM System One is the result of the group’s efforts.

“In the rapidly changing field of quantum technology, it is extremely important not only to develop quantum technology-related elements and systems, but also to foster the next generation of human resources in order to achieve advanced social implementation on a global scale,” Teruo Fujii, President of the University of Tokyo said. “Our university has a broad base of research talents and has been always promoting high-level quantum education from the undergraduate level. Now, we will further refine the development of the next generation of quantum native skillsets by utilizing IBM Quantum System One.”

Just weeks ago, Germany unveiled its own IBM Quantum System One at the Stuttgart as part of a multi-billion-dollar investment in quantum computing development within its borders. The European Union is also keen to fire up their own quantum research and IBM is planning to install a System One at the UK’s Science and Technologies Facilities Council.

Two additional computers are slated to be installed in the U.S., one at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio and the other at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

“IBM is committed to the growth of the global quantum ecosystem,” said Dr. Dario Gil, Director of IBM Research said.