National QIS Research Centers
Since 2020, the DOE National QIS Research Centers (NQISRCs) have advanced critical R&D across the American QIS enterprise through integrated research campaigns that address major cross-cutting challenges. Together, the NQISRCs are strengthening the innovation ecosystem in QIS by developing the quantum workforce, enabling cutting-edge capabilities, and integrating multidisciplinary research at the scale necessary to deliver breakthroughs in quantum information science and technology. Building on their success, the NQISRCs were renewed in 2025. The second phase of the NQISRCs will catalyze new discoveries in the science underpinning quantum technologies, using unique DOE tools and broad expertise to advance both software and hardware, thereby securing U.S. leadership in QIS.
Each Center incorporates a collaborative research team spanning multiple scientific and engineering disciplines and multiple institutions. In addition, each Center seamlessly integrates science and technology to accelerate progress in QIS research and development, facilitate technology transfer, and build the quantum workforce of the future.
Additional Information about the National QIS Research Centers can be found at https://nqisrc.org/.
C2QA · Co-design Center for Quantum Advantage
Director: Charles Black
Lead Institution: Brookhaven National Laboratory
C2QA will advance quantum computing and sensing through improving the materials used in superconducting quantum devices as well as plasma-grown, diamond-based quantum systems and by developing modular approaches for superconducting and neutral-atom platforms. These developments will enable quantum computers and devices to work together to attack large problems.
Q-NEXT · Interconnecting U.S. Quantum Science and Technology Center
Director: Martin Holt
Lead Institution: Argonne National Laboratory
Q-NEXT will advance algorithms and chip components for quantum information processing, enabling quantum operations to scale across chips, between different labs, and even across cities. This foundation will be crucial for distributed quantum networking. By preserving entanglement in quantum devices both locally and across larger distances, Q-NEXT will also prototype the next generation of quantum sensors.
QSA · Quantum Systems Accelerator
Director: Bert De Jong
Lead Institution: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
QSA will enable large-scale quantum computers through improved error correction using neutral atom, ion, and superconducting circuits. QSA will tackle DOE scientific grand challenges in fundamental physics, chemical dynamics, and emergent quantum phenomena by building synergies between hardware and software endeavors.
QSC · The Quantum Science Center
Director: Travis Humble
Lead Institution: Oak Ridge National Laboratory
QSC is laying the foundation for quantum-centric high-performance computing. QSC will develop open-source software for quantum-classical computing workflows, enabling researchers to leverage the strengths of both paradigms. This pioneering effort is set to accelerate scientific advancements across a broad spectrum of disciplines.
SQMS · Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems Center
Director: Anna Grassellino
Lead Institution: Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory
SQMS will focus on scaling quantum devices based on superconducting microwave cavities. By developing new devices, methods of refrigeration, and technologies for connecting many quantum computers, the center will lay the groundwork to bring together multiple quantum computing units to address large-scale problems.
