Insider Brief:
- The Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility’s Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP) launched a Request for Information to collect insights on quantum resources, stakeholder engagement strategies, and resource management tools to better address the needs of its users.
- QCUP is designed to open access to quantum computing resources through a merit-based program while evaluating emerging technologies and encouraging collaboration across academia, government, and industry.
- By gathering feedback, QCUP seeks to address challenges in scaling access and optimizing infrastructure, helping shape a more responsive and effective quantum computing ecosystem.
As quantum technology incrementally progresses in laboratories, academia, and even over coffee among like-minded advocates for the wonder of quantum mechanics, it’s easy to see why its champions are brimming with anticipation for its potential. With the International Year of Quantum nearly upon us, and the month dedicated to tying up loose ends just around the corner, carving out time to pause and take stock of the resources and needs of the field feels increasingly relevant. Technological progress can be electrifying, but ideas, no matter how profound, are nothing more than fleeting wisps impossible to grasp unless they are paired with decisive action. And behind every meaningful action lies a well-conceived plan, one that assesses the essential components: tools, resources, and the people that bring it all to life.
One pressing challenge that deserves adequate attention is how to scale access effectively, especially for those carrying out the research that is furthering the state of the technology. This is the concept behind the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility’s Quantum Computing User Program. The recently announced Request for Information will actively collect feedback to more holistically understand the state of the ecosystem in order to tailor the QCUP to the needs of its users.
“The purpose of the RFI is to gather input on quantum computing resources and to understand the readiness of those resources for quantum computing research,” explains Travis Humble, director of QCUP at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The initiative reflects a simple but undeniable truth: addressing needs begins with understanding them.
The Vision Behind the Quantum Computing User Program
Operating under the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility, the QCUP is designed to open access to quantum computing resources by offering a merit-based program for scientific researchers. From proof-of-concept demonstrations to benchmarking quantum performance, the program provides users the resources they need to explore how quantum technologies might transform scientific fields like nuclear physics, environmental science, and high-energy physics.
QCUP’s priorities extend beyond access. A key component of its mission is technology evaluation—monitoring the performance of early-stage quantum computing applications and benchmarking their capabilities against scientific needs. This not only enables researchers to test quantum algorithms but also helps in accelerating the adoption of quantum-classical hybrid computing.
The Request for Information: Seeking a Clearer Picture
In support of its mission, QCUP has launched a Request for Information to gather insights into three key areas:
- Availability of quantum computing resources: The RFI is looking for input on the state of quantum hardware, software, and tools, including methods for measuring and forecasting their performance.
- Strategies for stakeholder engagement: QCUP recognizes that meaningful progress requires broad community involvement. The RFI invites suggestions for engaging diverse stakeholders, from early-career researchers to industry veterans, in a way that maximizes the utility of quantum resources.
- Resource management tools: To ensure the effective allocation of resources, the program is designed to explore tools that streamline access, monitor usage, and provide clear reporting. The insights gathered will help QCUP optimize its infrastructure to better serve its users.
The feedback collected will inform both immediate and near-term priorities in order to develop a more responsive and impactful user program. The RFI remains open until January 10, 2025, with nondisclosure agreements available upon request for respondents providing sensitive information.
Moving Forward: A Shared Responsibility
As quantum computing progresses toward broader adoption, initiatives like QCUP’s RFI exemplify the belief that meaningful progress requires not only technological development but also a deep understanding of the resources and needs within the ecosystem. By inviting input from researchers, vendors, and developers, QCUP may be able to bridge the gaps in access and usability that often hinder further research, and by participating, stakeholders can serve this mission.
