A new research center for quantum computing has been opened at Caltech’s Pasadena campus. It is the culmination a two-year-long project between Amazon Web Services (AWS) and the university.
Caltech and AWS first announced the planned 21,000-square foot, two-story center in December 2019. Groundbreaking began only last August. The AWS Center for Quantum Computing is now open. According to Nadia Carlsten (head of product at AWS), the center will be the home base for AWS’ efforts in creating a “fault-tolerant” quantum computer.
The center will be home to AWS’ quantum research teams, laboratories, and the specialized equipment needed to develop and test quantum devices.
Carlsten stated that the new facility contains everything needed to push the boundaries in quantum R&D. This includes making, testing and operating quantum processors as well as innovating processes for controlling quantum computers. He also said that scaling the technology required to support larger quantum devices like wiring and cryogenic cooling systems, Carlsten said.
Strategically, the building was located on campus of Caltech, a storied research university. Caltech is well-known for its rigorous science, engineering and physics programs. Richard Feynman, pioneering quantum physicist, was a regular lecturer at Caltech.
Carlsten pointed out that the center’s Caltech location gives AWS access “students, faculty from leading research groups physics and engineering only a few blocks away.” AWS appointed two Caltech professors Oskar Painter, and Fernando Brandao to be the technical leads of the center.
Caltech announced that the center would support Caltech students and early career scientists through scholarships, internships, seminars, and other means.
Caltech’s new center will allow students to interact with cutting-edge research. Painter stated in a statement that this will be a great opportunity for students. AWS can tap into this talent. These are the future engineers, scientists, and builders of quantum computers.