The Quantum Science Center, a Department of Energy Office of Science National Quantum Information Science Research Center headquartered at ORNL, is creating new quantum technologies that will radically advance secure, energy-efficient computing and maintain American leadership in fundamental and applied science. 

Realizing the potential of the quantum future relies heavily on the development of exotic materials. By utilizing the lab’s unique suite of world-leading user facilities, including the Spallation Neutron Source, the Frontier exascale supercomputing system, and the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, ORNL researchers are developing and deploying materials capable of harnessing quantum effects.

Decades of leadership in HPC have equipped ORNL researchers with the expertise necessary to analyze and validate transformative computing technologies. Alongside partners in academia, industry, and government, ORNL is working toward the integration of classical and quantum computing to assess the potential of quantum architectures and accelerate scientific discovery in key applications.

Using the lab’s broad range of expertise as well as its state-of-the-art quantum optics facilities, ORNL staff are developing next-generation sensors capable of detecting a range of phenomena, including dark matter, that currently elude today’s technology.

ORNL is working with cities, utility companies, and other partners to assist in the modernization and enhanced security of the nation’s electric grid. With more than a dozen quantum communications-related inventions available for research or commercial license, ORNL researchers are setting the standard for the integration of tomorrow’s quantum networks and today’s infrastructure.