Quantum Testbed Pathfinder

Description

The mission of the ASCR program is to discover, develop, and deploy computational and networking capabilities to analyze, model, simulate and predict complex phenomena for the advancement of science. Since 2015, ASCR has held a series of workshops to assess the2potential of quantum computing to advance transformative science and identify its potential impact [1-3]. A wide range of high-impact applications of quantum computing were identified in areas such as chemistry, materials, and biology as well as in computational techniques such as optimization. However, the quantum resources required to achieve a practical advantage in any area of computational science remain inadequately understood. While it is possible to make a rough estimate based on the number of logic gates needed to run a specific algorithm, details such as the physical configuration of qubits in a processor device architecture, noise mechanisms, approaches to compilation and transpilation, gate set selection and implementation, etc. can have a significant impact on whether a specific quantum computer will be able to execute a useful computation. ASCR therefore invites applications for basic research to address the following questions:1. What can fundamental physical limits on quantum processors tell us about what quantum computers can and cannot do?2. How can we use NISQ devices to move our understanding of when and how quantum computers might be useful as far forward as possible?3. How can we best assess the utility of a given (existing or hypothetical) quantum processor for advancing the frontiers of computational science?Applications may address any combination of these themes. Submitted applications should clearly identify which of the themes are addressed. Research should be backed by rigorous theory and strive to connect metrics for device performance to low-level physical parameters as well as application performance whenever possible. This program is aimed at assessing current and future quantum computers rather than developing or improving applications and algorithms.Research proposed in response to this FOA should support the growth of an active, integrated research community committed to the common goal of developing quantum computing resources for advancing scientific discovery. Students and/or other junior researchers should have ample opportunity to participate in all aspects of the project. International collaboration and personnel exchange is encouraged.[1] ASCR Report on Quantum Computing for Science Workshop, February 2015.[2] ASCR Report on Quantum Testbeds Stakeholder Workshop, February 2017.[3] Quantum Computing Testbeds Stakeholder Workshop, December, 2021.

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