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Scientists at USask are on the forefront of groundbreaking research thanks to a partnership with the PINQ (Qubec Digital and Quantum Innovation Platform), the sole administrator of Canadas only IBM Quantum System One, a utility-scale quantum computer located at IBMs research facility in Bromont, Quebec.

USasks three-year agreement with PINQ enables faculty and students affiliated with USasks Centre for Quantum Topology and Its Applications (quanTA) to have access to the machine via PINQs quantum computing platform. This collaboration significantly enhances the existing quantum computing research activities at USask.

IBM Quantum System One is powered by a 127-qubit processor, which has achieved utility-scale performance, a point at which quantum computers could serve as scientific tools to explore a new scale of problems that classical systems may never be able to solve. Under ideal circumstances, a qubit can be astoundingly powerful in comparison to the ordinary bits in conventional computers.

One of the partnerships first projects will be a study of complex health data in children suffering from chronic diseases, including juvenile arthritis. Using patient-derived data, researchers will deploy quantum-enhanced data analysis and machine learning techniques to uncover and understand hidden factors that may lead to such diseases, leading potentially to future preventatives and therapies. The nature of this work augments what is possible using traditional computing methods.

The groundbreaking research made possible through this partnership will see USasks quantum scientists working together with many other scientists from diverse fields, further showcasing the interdisciplinary work currently underway at USask.

"Our government is supporting quantum computing capacity in Canada through this unique collaboration between USask and Quantum System One, the next-generation quantum computer at IBMs research facility. Todays investment gives USask access to that system and the computing power that will allow them to tackle difficult problems in key areas like health care, climate sciences, and beyond. This access will lead to exponential growth in research and development, while boosting innovation and further solidifying USask as a scientific centre of excellence.

- The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan

USask is a leader in quantum computing and this exciting new partnership allows us to further our influential work in the quantum ecosystem. We are committed to training the next generation of researchers, leaders and changemakers. Access to IBM Quantum System One will be a central component to recruit highly qualified students and build the skills of the next generation of quantum leaders.

-Baljit Singh, Vice President Research, USask

Over the past 60 years or so, computers have become one of the most important tools in a scientists back pocket, on par with the microscope. But the time has come where ordinary computing can no longer keep up with the problems that society needs to solve today, such as climate change and accelerated vaccine design. While still in its infancy, quantum computing promises to be the next indispensable tool in science. Some of the first real-world use cases for this technology will be developed right here at USask, thanks to this one-of-a-kind partnership with IBM and PINQ and owing to the strong interdisciplinary culture on our campus.

- Dr. Steven Rayan, director of USasks quanTA Centre and lead of USasks Quantum Innovation Signature Area of Research.

We are delighted to collaborate with USask, granting their researchers access to one of the worlds most powerful quantum computers. This partnership promises groundbreaking research and innovation, and we eagerly anticipate the outcomes arising from this collaboration. Our mission is to facilitate accelerated digital transformation for organizations and empower individuals in utilizing the capabilities of quantum computing. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to achieving that goal.

- ric Capelle, Managing Director, PINQ (Qubec Digital and Quantum Innovation Platform)

Excerpt from:
USask partners with PINQ to access Canada's only IBM Quantum System One - USask News