WithWave, SKKU, EPFL, and Zurich Instruments partner up to advance quantum-limited amplification technology

Youngin-si, South Korea | 21 October 2024

In a new initiative, WithWave, has teamed up with the Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), and Zurich Instruments, and to enhance the performance and market-readiness of quantum limited amplification technology. The strategic partnership aims to elevate the capabilities of traveling-wave parametric amplifiers (TWPAs), which are essential for the precise readout of qubits and the scaling up of quantum computing technologies.

Quantum computing relies heavily on accurate qubit readout to function efficiently. TWPAs are the leading technology for this purpose, allowing even the largest superconducting quantum processors today to achieve near-quantum-limited readout.

By focusing on advanced development to improve performance, minimize back-action, and enhance integration, the new Q-LAEP project (Quantum-Limited Amplifiers with Engineered Pump) seeks to propel TWPA technology to new heights, catering to the rapid scale-up of quantum computing.

The collaboration unites world-class expertise: EPFL's prowess in TWPA development, WithWave's specialization in RF engineering and integration, Zurich Instruments' leadership in control systems, and SKKU's cutting-edge quantum processor operations.

The partnership strengthens technological leadership in both Korea and Switzerland and exemplifies the power of international collaboration, merging the strengths of academia and industry to push the boundaries of quantum computing. John Lee, CEO of Withwave, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “At Withwave, we are delighted to collaborate with such prestigious partners and are looking forward to the exciting work ahead. We believe this collaboration will be highly beneficial in advancing quantum computing technologies.”

Zurich Instruments has a history of technological innovation, exemplified by the launch of the first commercial solution for parametric amplifier control, the SHFPPC Parametric Pump Controller. This product enables quantum-limited readout out of the box, making TWPA technology widely accessible. “It’s an honor to engage in this collaboration with strong partners from research and industry. We remain committed to staying at the cutting edge, ensuring that our customers benefit from state-of-the-art readout technology,” says Moritz Kirste, head of business development at Zurich Instruments.

The project is coordinated by the Laboratory of Photonics and Quantum Measurements (LPQM) at EPFL, led by Prof. Tobias J. Kippenberg. LPQM will also take responsibility for TWPA design, fabrication, and performance characterization. “We will continue our commitment to technology transfer, contributing to the growth of the Swiss quantum ecosystem while strengthening ties with South Korea,” says Dr. Marco Scigliuzzo, senior postdoctoral scholar at LPQM and Q-LAEP project manager.

Validation of the TWPA designs in a realistic application setting is critically important and will be carried out at the laboratory of Prof. YoungJae Song at SKKU, a leading institution in the implementation of Korea’s quantum technology strategy. “This Korean-Swiss international collaboration will bring the strength of each team together to make the superconducting quantum technology further scalable and more precise,” says Prof. Song.