Quantum Devices to Improve the Scalability of Commercial Annealing Quantum Computers

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By exploiting the unusual properties of quantum physics not present in classical computers, quantum computers are poised to tackle computational problems of societal importance in areas like optimization and materials design that are impossible, or very difficult, on classical computers. With many scientific hurdles now overcome, intermediate-scale quantum computers have emerged as a commercial product at a few leading companies, and the challenges of engineering quantum systems at this scale have come to the foreground. This proposal aims to experimentally investigate non-linear quantum devices anticipated to assist D-Wave in the fundamental and engineering challenges of their core commercial activity: making quantum annealing based quantum computers that are faster, can solver larger problems, and can tackle a wider variety of problems. The proposal encompasses three stages, device design, micro-fabrication using an industry-compatible planar process, and measurement in low-noise cryogenic environment. Success of the project will give D-Wave a competitive advantage over competitors, create more jobs in the Canadian quantum sector at D-Wave and closely related companies like 1QBit, better positioning Canada to reap the economic benefits of quantum computer technology.