The Quantum Accelerator for Materials Design (QuAMaD)

Today's pharmaceutical, chemical and materials companies rely on simulation to develop new materials and medicines. But the computers we currently use are not powerful enough to simulate large molecules or 'solid state' materials, which are used to build electronic components and devices.

This is where quantum computers can help. Quantum computers are a new type of powerful computer. They are based on building blocks called qubits. Quantum computers need to get much bigger to become powerful enough to help simulate new materials and molecules. However, it's not enough to simply build quantum computers with more qubits. We also need to develop better 'algorithms' - a set of instructions for the computer -- to help reduce the number of qubits needed for the simulation of new materials. By meeting halfway, developers of quantum hardware (the qubits) and software (the algorithms) will allow materials design experts to benefit sooner from quantum computers.

Building on existing algorithms research at Riverlane, this project will drastically reduce the number of qubits required for the quantum simulation of new materials. Riverlane will partner with Rolls-Royce and Samsung R&D Institute UK to build computational tools that will help them simulate large and more complex materials on a quantum computer. Riverlane will also work with the National Quantum Computing Centre to engage with other big companies who are considering using quantum computers. The results of the project can be used to help these companies understand the potential of quantum computing for their sectors and business models.

The tools and knowledge developed in this project will also be integrated into Riverlane's operating system for quantum computers. This work will benefit the companies who are building quantum hardware (the qubits). By using Riverlane's operating system and algorithms, they can strengthen their relationship with 'end-users' of their technology.

In summary, this project has the potential to benefit multiple industries. It will help researchers speed up the discovery of better materials while taking businesses one step closer to useful quantum computing.