Title: Fujitsu and Australian National University Collaborate to Establish Quantum Research Facility and Develop Local Quantum Talent
On July 4, 2024, Fujitsu Australia Limited and The Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a center for quantum research and develop a world-class quantum research facility in Australia. The partnership aims to capitalize on the future opportunities and applications of quantum technologies for the benefit of local organizations and the global community.
The MoU aligns with Australia’s National Quantum Strategy and sets a long-term vision for Fujitsu to partner with one of Australia’s leading tertiary educators. Graeme Beardsell, EVP and CEO of Fujitsu Oceania, stated that the collaboration is about more than just technology; it’s about unlocking the next wave of innovation.
As part of the collaboration, Fujitsu will provide ANU researchers and academics with access to Fujitsu’s quantum systems and simulators in Japan. Fujitsu plans to release a 256-qubit quantum computer in March 2025 and a quantum computer with as many as 1000 qubits in fiscal year 2026, ensuring ANU’s ongoing access to the latest in cutting-edge quantum technology.
ANU will develop teaching and training modules based on access to Fujitsu’s quantum technologies to further inform the overall approach to research into quantum computing. The partnership also aims to set up an on-site quantum computer at ANU to help local researchers, government, and industry professionals develop expertise in quantum computers.
Professor Lachlan Blackhall, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) at ANU, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating that it will help foster the growth of a talented pool of quantum computing professionals in Australia.
Fujitsu has developed quantum technologies and expertise, including a hybrid quantum computing platform and quantum applications in various fields such as chemistry calculations, financial systems, and drug discovery. Japan’s national Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) has already ordered a gate-based superconducting quantum computer system from Fujitsu.
Fujitsu is committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015, aiming to contribute to a better future empowered by the SDGs. Fujitsu is a digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, with 124,000 employees working to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity.
