Today D-Wave Systems and Virginia Tech announced a joint effort to provide greater access to quantum computers for researchers from the Intelligence Community and Department of Defense. D-Wave and Virginia Tech will work towards the creation of a permanent quantum computing center to house a D-Wave system at the Hume Center for National Security and Technology.
Both D-Wave and Virginia Tech recognize how vital it is that quantum computing be accessible to a broad community of experts focused on solving real-world problems,” said Bo Ewald, president of D-Wave International. “One of the many reasons we chose to work with Virginia Tech is their strong relationships with the intelligence and defense communities. A key area of focus will be to work with federal agencies towards the creation of a quantum computing center at the Hume Center.”
The Hume Center leads Virginia Tech’s research, education, and outreach programs focused on the challenges of cybersecurity and autonomy in the context of national and homeland security. Education programs provide mentorship, internships, and scholarships, and seek to address key challenges in qualified US citizens entering federal service. Current research initiatives include cyber-physical system security, orchestrated missions, and the convergence of cyber warfare and electronic warfare.
Under the agreement, D-Wave will work with Virginia Tech to enable their staff, faculty, and affiliates to build new applications and software tools for D-Wave quantum computers. Participants will be selected by Virginia Tech and include experts in artificial intelligence, machine learning, optimization, and sampling.
Establishing a quantum computing center at the Hume Center will advance our mission of supporting national security, and provide access to technology that few researchers can leverage today,” said Mark Goodwin, deputy director and COO of the Hume Center. “Working closely with D-Wave supports that goal in a meaningful, immediate way.”
