Poland's First Superconducting Quantum Computer to Be Launched at University of Wrocław
IQM Quantum Computers, a global leader in superconducting quantum computers, will implement Poland's first superconducting quantum computer, named “IQM Spark,” at the University of Science and Technology of Wrocław (WUST) in the second quarter of this year. This marks a significant milestone in Poland’s technological advancement, especially in the field of quantum computing. The 5-qubit quantum computer will be installed at the Wrocław Centre for Networking and Supercomputing, coinciding with the center's 30th anniversary. The system’s installation is expected to bolster research, particularly in Computer Science, and provide direct access to a real quantum computer for programming practice. Students and researchers from various disciplines, including members of the university’s quantum computing club, will have the opportunity to run their programs on the quantum machine. Professor Wojciech Bożejko from WUST's Faculty of Information Technology and Communication emphasized the importance of the quantum computer: “This is the first quantum computer in our country and Eastern Europe that uses low-temperature superconducting qubit technology. The system will offer Polish students hands-on access to a real quantum computer, enabling practical programming in quantum computing. Our goal is to conduct research and train IT specialists to push the boundaries of technology.” Following its expansion into Poland last year with the opening of a new office, IQM has launched several initiatives to support the country’s development of a sustainable quantum computing ecosystem. These include accelerating the market adoption of quantum solutions, collaborating with key stakeholders, and investing in local talent. Mikko Välimäki, co-CEO of IQM Quantum Computers, commented on the significance of the project: “We are proud to deliver the first quantum computer to Poland, strengthening its position as a leading hub for quantum development in Central and Eastern Europe. This system will elevate research and has the potential to transform modern science and industry.” Sylwia Barthel de Weydenthal, Commercial Director and National Director for the Central and Eastern European (CEE) market at IQM, added: “Given Poland's strong foundation in physics, mathematics, engineering, and computer science, the country is ideally positioned to nurture local talent and promote a new generation of scientists and engineers.” WUST, founded in 1945, is one of Poland’s leading technical universities. With a current enrollment of over 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students, and more than 750 Ph.D. candidates supervised by over 2,296 academic staff, the university is renowned for its contributions to research and innovation. In the past decade alone, WUST has been granted 2,822 patents, placing it among the national leaders in technological advancements. The university boasts 581 educational laboratories, 407 research laboratories, and eight accredited laboratories, making it a robust institution for fostering advanced technological education and research. IQM, headquartered in Espoo, Finland, has a workforce of over 280 professionals across multiple global locations, including offices in the United States, Italy, Germany, Spain, France, Singapore, Japan, and Poland. The company specializes in providing full-stack, on-site quantum computers and a cloud platform for accessing its quantum systems. Clients include top high-performance computing centers, research labs, universities, and companies that require extensive and direct control over both software and hardware. Industry insiders view the installation of “IQM Spark” at WUST as a positive step toward establishing Poland's presence in the international quantum computing community. The availability of such advanced technology in a prominent educational institution is expected to attract more interest and investment in quantum research within the country. Additionally, the collaboration between IQM and WUST highlights the growing importance of international partnerships in advancing the field of quantum computing, setting a precedent for similar initiatives in the region. Poland's robust academic and research environment, combined with IQM's cutting-edge technology, positions the country well to make significant contributions to the field. This partnership is seen as a strategic move to develop local expertise and drive technological innovation, aligning with broader goals in Central and Eastern Europe to become leaders in quantum technology.
