Microsoft will open a “new quantum research center in the heart of the University of Maryland’s Discovery District,” according to an announcement from Gov. Wes Moore.
The effort, designed to produce “next-generation quantum technologies,” involves not only the state and the tech giant but the University of Maryland Enterprise Corporation.
“Maryland is making big bets on the future to grow our economy and drive innovation. Quantum is at the center of that strategy,” said Moore in the statement. “We are honored to partner with Microsoft in this effort, as we work together to create jobs, spark discovery and stimulate growth. And together, we will continue to make Maryland the best place in the world to change the world.”
Artificial intelligence might seem like the hottest and most innovative technology now, but backers of quantum computing expect it to bring massive disruption soon enough — though others caution about attaching too much hype to such technology.
Quantum calculations happen at speeds that seem almost impossible to comprehend, which could eventually kick open the door to countless innovations while making current encryption systems obsolete.
The University of Maryland had already teamed with the U.S. Department of Defense on quantum research, a program that promises to bring more tech jobs to the state, according to backers.
And Maryland is not the only public agency trying to position itself for a quantum future. Illinois and New Mexico, for instance, are putting major efforts and money toward attracting more quantum research and companies.
As part of the newest effort in Maryland, researchers from government and academia will gain access to “advanced quantum hardware prototypes” such as Microsoft’s Majorana 1 chip.
According to the statement, Maryland so far has attracted $1 billion in quantum technology investment, including state funds. Almost a dozen startups focused on the technology operate in Maryland.
