Full Breakdown
Maryland Launches Microsoft Quantum Research Center in College Park
By Drooid · · How we work
Opening of the Microsoft Quantum Research Center
State officials, University of Maryland leaders, and representatives from Microsoft and partner firms gathered on Tuesday to inaugurate the Microsoft Quantum Research Center in the university’s Discovery District. The facility, announced at the previous September’s Quantum World Congress, showcases a “chandelier” quantum system that houses qubits cooled to near absolute zero (-273 °C). Construction began shortly after the design was completed in April, and the center is slated to be operational for student work by the spring.
Background and the Capital of Quantum Initiative
The opening follows Maryland’s “Capital of Quantum” initiative, launched in January 2025 to spur public-private investment in quantum computing. Since the initiative’s start, the state and university have secured more than $500 million in pledged investments, aiming for a $1 billion total. In the past year, Maryland also helped establish a $65 million Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security at the university and expanded access to IBM quantum processors through a National Quantum Laboratory agreement.
Key Figures and Partnerships
- Gov. Wes Moore (D) – Governor of Maryland, champion of the quantum strategy.
- Darryll Pines – President of the University of Maryland, highlighted the center as a “signature moment.”
- Charlie Tahan – Microsoft quantum partner, emphasized the region’s talent pool.
- Matthew Brooks – Senior quantum hardware engineer at Microsoft, described the research potential of quantum computers.
- Edward Chen – Principal quantum hardware theorist, explained the cooling technology for the chandelier system.
Partner companies IQM, Quantum Motion, and Riverlane have also announced facilities in the Discovery District, reinforcing the hub’s industry presence.
Official Statements & Responses
Gov. Wes Moore asserted that investing in quantum technology creates new career opportunities for Maryland students and is a catalyst for economic growth. University President Darryll Pines described the building as the fulfillment of a promise made the previous year and called the event a “signature moment for the state.” State legislators—including Rep. Glenn Ivey, Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk, Sen. Jim Rosapepe, and Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy—attended, underscoring broad governmental support.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There’s a lot of talent here, and in the world … there’s not that much quantum talent,” — Charlie Tahan
- “This building you are in today is a realization of a dream, a vision, a promise that was made last year,” — Darryll Pines, of maryland president
- “This is a signature moment for the state.” — Gov. Wes Moore
- “We want research to advance right here … we want Marylanders to be able to build careers and businesses because of what happens here,” — Gov. Wes Moore