Quantum Information Science (QIS)

Introduction to HEP-QIS

Quantum information science (QIS) is the study of how the unique behaviors of the microscopic world described by quantum mechanics – such as entanglement, superposition, and interference – can be used to solve scientific problems and build new technologies, such as quantum sensors and computers. QIS techniques and technologies can address all three major themes of the 2023 P5 Report: Decipher the Quantum Realm, Explore New Paradigms in Physics, and Illuminate the Hidden Universe. In DOE’s HEP office, we are interested in QIS for the potential it opens to solve previously intractable problems, measure previously undetectable signals, and bring new theoretical tools to bear on our understanding of the universe.

HEP-QIS Strategy and History

The HEP-QIS research program is strategically aligned both with the priorities of the P5 report and with nationwide QIS efforts, particularly the National Quantum Initiative. HEP’s QIS efforts are responsive to the first component of the national quantum strategy – getting the science right by understanding the applications and timelines by which QIS can benefit society and the roadblocks that must be overcome to get there. Our program strategy has been developed via a series of community round tables, pilot studies, and reports since 2014, which can be found here. Our QIS research occurs through two main channels: research grants through our QuantISED program and our support of the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems center at Fermilab.

The Quantum Information Science Enabled Discovery (QuantISED) program began in 2018. The projects, a list of which can be found below, explored new types of sensors for HEP applications, developed new theoretical tools for understanding entanglement and gravitation, and explored how quantum computers can contribute to fundamental science by simulating field theories and handling the data produced in colliders. One of these projects, MAGIS-100, has become an in-construction experiment at Fermilab, where the team is building a quantum sensing experimental platform at unprecedented scale. In 2024, HEP launched QuantISED 2.0, seeking a new generation of quantum information projects. This new set of projects will advance the state of the art, using the prior QuantISED results as a foundation and pushing forward from proof-of-concept to real discovery potential. QuantISED 2.0 seeks theoretical advances in applying quantum information to HEP problems, new quantum sensing technologies well beyond previous capabilities, and the development of Pathfinder experiments that demonstrate the potential of quantum technology as a tool to enable new discoveries. Selections for QuantISED 2.0 were announced in January 2025. The 25 projects supported in QuantISED 2.0 will receive $20 million in the first year, with a total of $71 million over five years pending appropriations. The new set of projects are advancing theories of gravity and spacetime, developing quantum sensors that can see previously undetectable signals, and building pathfinder experiments to make new discoveries in searches for dark matter and other new particles and phenomena.

The Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems (SQMS) Center at Fermilab is part of the National Quantum Initiative Science Research Centers, one of five supported by the Department of Energy. SQMS has several major technical focuses, including the understanding the material basis for high-quality electromagnetic cavities, superconducting qubits and processors; integrating those devices into larger and more capable systems; and developing new algorithms and sensing technologies to realize quantum advances in fundamental physics, like searching for dark matter or gravitational waves. Accomplishing these important science goals relies on SQMS leading a world-class quantum ecosystem and partnering with students and researchers across the world. As of 2024, SQMS had partnered with over 500 collaborators across 34 member institutions, leading to over 250 publications.

As shown by the SQMS example, our QIS portfolio is highly collaborative. We work closely with other offices in the Department of Energy’s Office of Science as part of managing both our research portfolio and the NQI Science Research Centers, efforts that are ultimately guided by the overarching framework of the National Quantum Initiative. Beyond the U.S., HEP works to maintain world-class international collaborations, as evidenced by international participation in MAGIS-100 (from the UK) and SQMS (from Canada, the UK, and Italy).

DOE HEP is committed to fostering an inclusive environment across the scientific enterprise, including in QIS. This commitment stems from our duty to ensure that the U.S. research community includes diverse voices who can pursue their work safely and as full participants in an equitable scientific community. In addition, we believe that harnessing a broad range of views, expertise, and experiences equips us to achieve the innovation needed to explore scientific and technological frontiers. For more information on our commitments, see statements from the Office of Science and SQMS. DOE opportunities particularly relevant to our goals are Funding for Accelerated, Inclusive Research (FAIR), Reaching a New Energy Workforce (RENEW), and the Early Career Research Program. Additionally, DOE HEP funds the SQMS Carolyn B. Parker Fellowship, which supports minoritized scholars in physics.

Getting Involved

Currently, there is no dedicated QIS funding opportunity accepting applications; our most recent funding opportunity, now closed, was QuantISED 2.0 (see page on grants.gov). Some QIS projects may be of interest to other HEP subprograms; these can be submitted to those funding opportunities when appropriate. HEP’s open funding opportunities can be found here.

Those with questions or interest in discussing HEP’s QIS program should contact the program manager at the email address listed below.

Lists and Links

Collaborations Across the Government

HEP-QIS Workshop Reports

HEP-QIS Research

Current and Past Funding Opportunities

All current and past HEP funding opportunities can be found here.

Contact Information

Zachary Goff-Eldredge, PhD
Program Manager, Quantum Information Science
Email: [email protected]