UMD Expands Partnership With IonQ to Advance Quantum Computing, Networking

The University of Maryland this week announced a major expansion of its partnership with IonQ, a leading quantum computing hardware and software company, through a $7.5 million agreement funded by the state of Maryland’s Capital of Quantum initiative.

This agreement will support enhancements to UMD’s National Quantum Laboratory (QLab), significantly increasing quantum computing capacity for the university’s researchers, students and partners. It will also extend collaborative research initiatives, accelerate the development of next-generation quantum hardware and introduce a major new focus area: quantum networking, which could introduce a new era of ultra-secure communications.

“This expanded agreement strengthens the QLab as a premier testbed for quantum networking and computing and deepens opportunities for our faculty and students to work hands-on with industry-leading systems,” said University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines. “Building on our strong relationship with IonQ through the QLab is critical to advancing discovery, developing talent and reinforcing Maryland’s position as the Capital of Quantum.”

The agreement includes additional resources to support increased usage of the QLab, a global user facility launched in 2021 in partnership with IonQ, enabling more people to pursue cutting-edge quantum research and development.

“Our longstanding partnership with the University of Maryland meets the need to accelerate access to advanced quantum computing, quantum networking capabilities and talent development,” said Niccolo de Masi, chairman and CEO of IonQ. “IonQ’s collaboration with UMD reflects our commitment to Maryland’s Capital of Quantum initiative, as we broaden QLab to include quantum networking, hardware upgrades and deeper collaboration with its researchers.”

The Capital of Quantum initiative was launched by the state last year to build on its reputation as one of the world’s most advanced quantum ecosystems, bringing together top research, talent and infrastructure with industry, investors and government. The five-year, $1 billion public-private initiative is anchored by the University of Maryland—home to hundreds of quantum scientists and engineers and robust federal partnerships, 10 quantum research centers and the Quantum Startup Foundry business accelerator. 

As part of the enhanced QLab partnership, IonQ will collaborate with UMD to deploy a quantum memory node, strengthening the Mid-Atlantic Quantum Information (MARQI) network, positioning Maryland as one of the nation’s leading testbeds for quantum networking research. Quantum networking is widely viewed as a critical next step beyond quantum computing, enabling distributed quantum computing and quantum sensor networks, and laying the foundation for future technologies.

“This reflects Maryland’s commitment to leading the nation in quantum innovation and bolstering our reputation as the Capital of Quantum,” said Gretchen Campbell, associate vice president for quantum research and education at UMD. “By strengthening our collaboration with IonQ, we are building new capabilities that will drive discovery, expand access for our researchers and prepare the next generation of quantum leaders to shape the future.”

The agreement also includes the development of a new laser system to enable mid-circuit measurement on the UMD experimental ion-trap quantum computing system, along with support for the Quantum Thermodynamics Hub; it also will strengthen joint applications research and collaborations in promising areas. 

“The Capital of Quantum initiative is focused on building a stronger quantum ecosystem for Maryland, and deep industry-university partnerships like this are a core part of how we do that.” said Corey Stambaugh, director of the Capital of Quantum.