Researchers from Harvard suggest that the creation of startups indicates quantum computing technology might be advancing more rapidly than previously thought. Mihir Bhaskar, who earned his Ph.D. in physics from Harvard in 2021, was fascinated with computing history in his youth. His dedication has contributed to significant progress in quantum computing, which may one day feature in museum exhibits. According to Harvard’s Evelyn Hu, the technology is progressing faster than expected and is already penetrating the commercial market.<\/p>\n
Bhaskar co-founded LightsynQ in 2024 to commercialize his doctoral research on quantum networking. The company was later acquired by IonQ, where he now serves as senior vice president for research and development. Another startup, QuEra, was established in 2018 by Mikhail Lukin and Markus Greiner and has shipped its second quantum computer to Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology. CavilinQ, the third startup, recently announced $8.8 million in seed funding to develop quantum networking technology.<\/p>\n
Brandon Grinkemeyer, a postdoctoral fellow in physics and co-founder of CavilinQ, emphasized the importance of quantum networking. It enhances computing power by connecting processors, a principle that applies to both classical and quantum computing. This connectivity enables new functionalities, such as quantum-enhanced imaging and secure quantum computation.<\/p>\n
Quantum computers operate on principles from the atomic and subatomic quantum realm, where bits can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This potential opens possibilities for powerful computers with applications in various fields like drug discovery and cryptography. Harvard’s Quantum Initiative has been crucial in these developments, fostering partnerships with industry leaders like Amazon Web Services.<\/p>\n
Mikhail Lukin highlighted the importance of recent advances in fault tolerance, reducing errors caused by quantum forces. These improvements are propelling the technology forward faster than anticipated, with potential for large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers within this decade. Bhaskar noted the unexpectedly rapid pace of development and industry support as key factors in this progress.<\/p>\n
Sam Liss, Harvard’s Chief Technology Development Officer, credits the Greater Boston area’s ecosystem as a “quantum hub” that supports the commercialization of quantum research. The Harvard Grid Accelerator also plays a role by providing resources to help research become startup ventures. While some applications of quantum computing are clear, others may emerge unexpectedly, similar to the impact transistors had on computing.<\/p>\n