Overview
Problem
Builds scalable quantum computers using a novel trapped-ion architecture that allows for three-dimensional qubit configurations without compromising connectivity or fidelity.
Quantum computing has strong potential to revolutionise industries, by solving complex problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers. However, a significant barrier to realising this potential is the challenge of scaling quantum processors to accommodate a large number of quantum bits (qubits), while maintaining high fidelity (accuracy and reliability) and connectivity. Quantum computers, today, are limited in qubit count. For instance, IBM's Condor quantum processor has 1,121 superconducting qubits, marking a notable advancement, yet still insufficient for tackling many real-world applications. To achieve practical quantum advantage, estimates suggest that quantum computers will require thousands to millions of qubits. This scale is necessary to perform error correction and execute complex algorithms effectively.
Solution
ZuriQ addresses the scaling challenge by developing a unique quantum computing architecture that utilises large 3-D arrays of trapped atomic ions (one of the key hardware types being used today) on industrially fabricated microchips. ZuriQ uses “perfect” qubits which have demonstrated the highest fidelity compared to other qubit hardware modalities. This design aims to efficiently scale the number of qubits while maintaining high fidelity and connectivity, thereby unlocking the computational power necessary to solve complex problems in drug design, chemistry, finance, and beyond.
Market
As of December 2023, trapped ion computers had already received over $1.5 billion of funding, according to McKinsey, making it the second most funded qubit hardware type. Additionally, the total annual value creation of quantum computing is expected to reach between $6-12 billion by 2030, even without full-scale, universal fault-tolerant computers, highlighting the colossal market opportunity for ZuriQ's technology. The quantum computing hardware market has received billions in global funding over the past several years as government bodies aim to be the pioneering nation to achieve quantum supremacy. This has further driven private funding which has been increasing y-o-y in Europe between 2018 and 2023.
Founders
ZuriQ’s founding team has a vast array of experience within trapped-ion technology. CEO, Dr. Pavel Hrmo, has over 10 years of experience working with trapped ions. CTO, Tobias, and CSO, Dr. Jain, both developed pioneering designs which now underpin the novel approach used in ZuriQ’s architecture. The trio of founders plus their scientific advisors, entrenched with strong expertise as the pioneers of the approach, make the team excellent candidates to successfully commercialise the technology.
Dr. Pavel Hrmo
CEO
Tobias Sägesser
CTO
Dr. Shreyans Jain
CSO
Summary
Overall, ZuriQ has created a novel, first-of-a-kind of approach to scale trapped-ion quantum computers. With this specific hardware modality owing significant promise due to its high fidelity, being able to scale trapped-ion quantum computers would drastically accelerate progress in the sector. Additionally, the founding team has a substantial number of years working with this specific technology and are pioneers within the field. The novel approach tackling a key bottleneck, the scalable architecture, and solid founding team, positions ZuriQ to make promising strides in the quantum computing ecosystem.