The United States has taken a giant leap forward in quantum computing. Google announced Wednesday that its quantum computer Sycamore has proven the scientific theory of “quantum supremacy,” demonstrating that a quantum computer can perform tasks that reach beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Sycamore showcased an algorithm that becomes exponentially harder for classical machines to emulate as the number of quantum bits increases. Read more…

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 104(a) of the National Quantum Initiative Act (Public Law 115-368) (Act), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, and in order to ensure continued American leadership in quantum information science and technology applications, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Today, The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) took significant steps in the implementation of the National Quantum Initiative Act, signed into law by President Trump in December. As called for in the Act, OSTP chartered the National Quantum Coordination Office, which will work with Federal agencies in developing and maintaining quantum programs, connecting with stakeholders, enabling access and use of R&D infrastructure, and supporting the National Science and Technology Council’s (NSTC) Subcommittee on Quantum Information Science. Read more…

Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes are large-scale interdisciplinary research projects that aim to advance the frontiers of quantum information science and engineering. Research at these Institutes will span the focus areas of quantum computation, quantum communication, quantum simulation and/or quantum sensing. The institutes are expected to foster multidisciplinary approaches to specific scientific, technological, educational workforce development goals in these fields. Two types of awards will be supported under this program: (i) 12-month Conceptualization Grants (CGs) to support teams envisioning subsequent Institute proposals and (ii) 5-year Challenge Institute (CI) awards to establish and operate Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes. This activity is part of the Quantum Leap, one of the research Big Ideas promoted by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The NSF Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes program is consistent with the scope of NSF multidisciplinary centers for quantum research and education as described in the National Quantum Initiative Act. Read more…