National Quantum Research Advocacy: Rationale behind Establishing a National Quantum Research Consortium
In a bid to maintain U.S. technological leadership and ensure economic and national security, policymakers are considering the establishment of a National Quantum Computing Research Task Force. This task force, if approved, will be responsible for creating the National Quantum Research Cloud, a shared infrastructure aimed at making quantum research more accessible and affordable.
The National Quantum Research Cloud is designed to be a game-changer in the field of quantum computing. Quantum computers, known for their immense power, are currently extremely expensive, making them inaccessible for many researchers, startups, and industries. By providing access to quantum hardware and software through the cloud, the National Quantum Research Cloud will democratize innovation and accelerate practical applications.
Moreover, the proposed cloud includes a training component. The development of a skilled quantum workforce at all levels, from academia to industry, is crucial to sustain the research, development, and commercialization of quantum technologies over the long term. Training programs will help build expertise in quantum algorithms, hardware engineering, and quantum-safe cybersecurity.
The strategic need to maintain U.S. leadership in quantum technologies is highlighted by their transformative potential in cryptography, sensing, and computing. With international competitors like China investing heavily in quantum research, a national effort is required to prevent losing ground. A well-funded national strategy, incorporating the National Quantum Research Cloud and comprehensive quantum computing training, is vital to sustain U.S. quantum leadership, strengthen cybersecurity, and cultivate the workforce necessary for this emerging critical technology sector.
Congress is currently considering establishing the National Quantum Research Cloud, and a National Quantum Computing Research Task Force is proposed to provide the necessary training for near-term quantum computing applications. A video titled "Quantum Computing: Why Should Policymakers Care?" discusses the importance of quantum computing for policymakers, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize various sectors, from defense and secure communications to advanced sensing.
In summary, the arguments for a National Quantum Research Cloud and training in quantum computing revolve around the strategic need to maintain U.S. leadership, ensure economic and national security, and build a sustainable quantum ecosystem through coordinated federal investment and workforce development. The proposed National Quantum Computing Research Task Force and the National Quantum Research Cloud are expected to play significant roles in making quantum computing more accessible, reducing costs, and fostering innovation in the United States.
- To foster innovation and reduce costs in quantum computing, policymakers are considering the establishment of a National Quantum Computing Research Task Force, which, if approved, will oversee the creation of the National Quantum Research Cloud.
- The National Quantum Research Cloud, designed as a shared infrastructure, will democratize quantum research by providing access to quantum hardware and software, thus accelerating practical applications.
- Incorporating comprehensive quantum computing training within the National Quantum Research Cloud is crucial for developing a skilled quantum workforce, a key requirement for sustaining the research, development, and commercialization of quantum technologies in the long term.
