What we do

The Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT) is a Research Centre of Excellence (RCE) in Singapore. It brings together physicists, computer scientists and engineers to do basic research on quantum physics and to build devices based on quantum phenomena. Experts in this new discipline of quantum technologies are applying their discoveries in computing, communications, and sensing.

 


The Centre was established in December 2007 with support from Singapore’s National Research Foundation and Ministry of Education. CQT is hosted by the National University of Singapore (NUS) and also has staff at Nanyang Technological University (NTU).

 

Discovery

We pursue insight into the physics that describes light, matter, and information. We develop novel tools to study and control their interactions. Our research goals range from understanding the properties of materials to working out new encryption schemes.

Technology

We build technologies for secure communication, quantum computing, and precision measurement. We create our own software and control systems that push the boundaries of what’s possible. We collaborate and consult with industry.

Education

We train people from undergraduates to postdoctoral fellows. Our quantum technologists are skilled in planning and problem-solving, with diverse skills such as coding, circuit design, and systems engineering. Our alumni have moved on to jobs in academia and industry.

CQT research areas

Research at CQT spans quantum communication and security, quantum computation and simulation, and quantum sensing and metrology, supported by the development of advanced instruments. The Centre’s researchers also study basic quantum science to uncover new knowledge. Explore our research pages for more details on what the Centre's groups - led by 24 Principal Investigators and one CQT fellow - are working on.

 
 

National quantum platforms

CQT plays a major role in the national facilities supported by Singapore's Quantum Engineering Programme.

 
  • National Quantum-Safe Network - conducting nationwide trials of quantum-safe communication technologies that aim to enhance network security for critical infrastructure, led by researchers at CQT, NUS and NTU with public-private partnerships.
  • National Quantum Computing Hub - developing quantum computing capabilities and exploring applications through industry collaborations, a joint initiative of CQT with A*STAR's Institute of High Performance Computing and the National Supercomputing Centre Singapore
  • National Quantum Fabless Foundry - supporting microfabrication techniques for quantum devices and enabling technologies, hosted at A*STAR's Institute of Materials Research and Engineering with the director co-appointed as a CQT PI

 

 

CQT by numbers

 

CQT's history

Quantum research in Singapore was initiated in 1998 by Kwek Leong Chuan, Lai Choy Heng, Oh Choo Hiap and Kuldip Singh as a series of informal seminars at the National University of Singapore. The seminars attracted local researchers and resulted in the formation of the Quantum Information Technology Group, informally referred to in Singlish as quantum lah (read more about the expression 'lah' on Wikipedia).

 

In February 2002, support from the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) consolidated research efforts in the field and led to a number of faculty appointments. In 2007, the Quantum Information Technology Group was selected as the core of Singapore’s first Research Centre of Excellence leading to the foundation of CQT in December 2007.

 

 

 

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