Microsoft - Quantum Computing Research

Quantum computing has the potential to transform the global economy and society at large. The long-term Microsoft investment will bring state-of-the-art equipment, foster the recruitment of new staff, help build the nation’s scientific and engineering talent, and focus significant research funding into the University of Sydney Nano Institute, assuring Australia a leading role in the emerging quantum economy.

The investment represented the largest single contribution to quantum computing ever in Australia.

Doug Carmean, Microsoft’s computer architect, said: “Our significant investment in quantum computing is a collaborative effort between Microsoft and academia. This is what will ultimately accelerate the transition from pure research to the development of useful quantum machines.”

The University of Sydney’s quantum laboratory is one of just three global hubs into which Microsoft invested, the other experimental centres being TU Delft, Netherlands and Copenhagen, Denmark.

“The deep partnership between Microsoft and the University of Sydney will allow us to help build a rich and robust local quantum economy by attracting more skilled people, invest in new equipment and research, and accelerate progress in quantum computing – a technology that we believe will disrupt the way we live, reshaping national and global security and revolutionise medicine, communications and transport,” Professor David Reilly, director of the University of Sydney Microsoft Quantum Laboratory said.

Update to this case study: In July 2024, Microsoft decided to exit quantum computing research in Australia to consolidate its quantum research efforts at its headquarters at Redmond, USA. Accordingly, the University’s fruitful partnership with Microsoft regarding quantum research wrapped up in late 2024.