UArizona Receives Grant to Construct Quantum Internet

The University of Arizona was awarded a portion of a grant to help lead the construction of the “quantum internet.”

The quantum internet could speed up computing and practically immunize it from hackers.

“We are seeing more and more quantum machines that are capable of several mathematical computations that are impossible in classical machines,” Saikat Guha, Associate Professor of Optical Sciences, said.


Guha added that quantum bits, or qubits, will give super power to processors, sensors and other gadgets that could connect “ultrasensitive long baseline telescopes and remote sensing satellites empowered by quantum entanglement, and democratizing access to cloud-based quantum computers.”

The university is sharing a five-year, $26-million grant from the National Science Foundation with Harvard, Yale and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Guha also believes quantum technology will spur new industries and products.

“We are just beginning to connect small quantum computers, quantum-enhanced sensors, and other gadgets into quantum networks,” he said.

“This will allow applications that would never be possible on the classical internet.”

The “quantum internet” would use a new series of codes with photons and electrons.

In February, the White House National Quantum Coordination Office underscored the importance of the field by issuing “A Strategic Vision for America’s Quantum Networks.”

“By leading the way in quantum networking, America is poised to revolutionize national and financial security, patient privacy, drug discovery, and the design and manufacturing of new materials, while increasing our scientific understanding of the universe,” the document said.