IQM accelerates innovation in the MATQu project: Interview with Dr. Juha Hassel

What is MATQu and what is IQM’s contribution?

MATQu is an acronym for “Materials for Quantum Computing” and the name of a research project recently funded by the European Commission. The MATQu project aims to create a strong European ecosystem to expand the applicability of core superconducting qubit components by improving materials as wells as processing and characterization technologies for quantum computing hardware. In the three-year project, superconducting qubits based on Josephson junctions are the main use case, as they are currently one of the most mature platforms for quantum computing.

As part of this project, we will contribute with our technology, innovations, and facilities. Based on the already established baseline qubit process, we will also identify the most promising materials and processes developed by the project partners. This contribution will help improve materials, modules and process integration, 3D integration and packaging, characterization, and applications.

Can you specify which IQM tools and resources are used?

We contribute to the eighteen member MATQu consortium with our KQCircuits software design tool for highest reproducibility of qubits, with our recently announced quantum fabrication facility for rapid implementation of innovations, and with our experimental laboratory resources for characterization and validation of technologies.

IQM's research and development teams also contribute by designing, implementing, integrating, and validating technology solutions developed in collaboration with MATQu partners. With these contributions, we aim to accelerate the development of "Materials for Quantum Computing."

Why is this important?

Finding optimal ways to fabricate and integrate superconducting quantum computing systems is an extensive task. To find the right solutions, it is beneficial to approach the challenge through a collaborative model. For example, multiple materials and techniques can be considered, and R&D infrastructures can be used extensively to study the topic from different angles. IQM is in a unique position here, having built the first fully private manufacturing facility exclusively for superconducting quantum devices and being able to provide a complete infrastructure for quantum device development, manufacturing, and benchmarking.

How will the chips be produced?

In MATQu, we will develop the best possible solutions in collaboration with partners and within IQM. Last November, we announced our own quantum manufacturing facility where we will develop, research and manufacture quantum processors. This advanced facility for pilot and production runs of quantum processors will help accelerate research, development, and innovation at IQM and at MATQu, while meeting global demand.

Located near our headquarters and quantum laboratories in Espoo, Finland, this new facility represents our largest investment to date.

Useful links:

About KQCircuits: www.meetiqm.com/developers/kqcircuits/

KQCircuits Documentation: https://iqm-finland.github.io/KQCircuits/

About MATQu: https://www.matqu.eu

MATQu funding: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101007322