News

Canadian Quantum Computing Gets A Boost Through Unique Training Opportunity

March 25, 2021: Graduate students from across Canada enjoyed a unique opportunity to use the IBM Q Hub, one of the world’s most powerful quantum computing platforms. Held online over three weeks, this training workshop came to light through NSERC CREATE programs Quantum BC and QSciTech, who joined forces to deliver a one-of-a-kind workshop for students to learn how to use the IBM Q Hub for concrete, real-world applications.

Recall that in the summer of 2020,  Institut quantique (IQ) at Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS) joined the IBM Quantum Network as an IBM Q Hub, the first in Canada. CMC Microsystems partnered with IQ to join the Hub, providing access to the platform for leading researchers through Canada’s National Design Network® (CNDN). IBM Q Hub members gain exclusive cloud-based access to IBM’s most advanced quantum computing systems and software, including a 53-qubit system, currently the largest universal one available in the industry. 

Quantum computing has the potential to solve problems beyond the capabilities of conventional supercomputers, and could revolutionize the advancement of several fields, including biochemistry, finance, logistics, and artificial intelligence. In addition to developing prototype code, workshop participants dove into real-world chemistry modelization by simulating the quantum states and Hamiltonian of the hydrogen (H2) molecule. This exercise gave the participants the building blocks necessary to eventually tackle complex quantum chemistry problems with envisioned applications in the fields of renewable energies, material design, pharmacology, and much more.    

Organizations from across Canada deliver training on the IBM Q Hub, one of the world’s most powerful quantum platforms

One member of the organizing committee reflected that “this workshop was not only a success for the students, it demonstrated the commitment and strength of the relationship between British Columbia and Quebec to jointly push Canadian quantum computing expertise. In time, our bonds, drawn together by our common interest in quantum, will bring the two coasts even closer together, furthering our education and R&D initiatives.”

The quantum computing industry is poised for explosive growth with practically endless industrial applications. It takes a very special skillset to develop and program the algorithms to use quantum platforms to their full potential, and developing highly qualified personnel can give Canada a competitive advantage in the quantum ecosystem. “This is another great example of CMC giving researchers the tools and expertise to bring their research vision to light and helping train and develop Canadian talent to excel at the highest level” said Gordon Harling, President and CEO of CMC Microsystems.

About CMC Microsystems:

CMC Microsystems works with researchers and industry across Canada’s National Design Network® (CNDN). We provide access to world-class platforms for Computer Aided Design (CAD), prototyping and manufacturing services (FAB), training and support (LAB) for researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry. Our services are geared for microsystems, nanotechnologies, photonics, and support innovative sectors of the next-generation economy. CMC reduces barriers by offering simplified access to the right tools to create tomorrow’s technologies. Our network is made up of over 10,000 entrepreneurs and researchers at 60 post-secondary institutions across CNDN.

Accelerate your project by adding CMC to your R&D team!

Scroll to Top
Skip to content