The Quantum Technologies Aotearoa project launched in Dunedin recently, with a workshop set for 8–10 November. Developed by Te Whai Ao—The Dodd-Walls Centre for Photonic and Quantum Technologies, the ambitious project plans to connect New Zealand’s niche expertise in quantum technology research with international partners.
It brings together scientists from Paihau—Robinson Research Institute, the Universities of Auckland, Canterbury, and Otago, and Te Herenga Waka’s Faculty of Science.
Dr Simon Granville, a senior scientist at Paihau, says this collaboration combines resources and expertise to explore the untapped potential in New Zealand’s quantum technology sector.
“The opportunity is huge—with international impact and networks.
“The goal is to link the research happening in New Zealand with some of the best work being done internationally. Quantum computing and sensing have received large government and private investments because it has massive potential for solving big global challenges and to improve the precision of physical measurements.”
One key area of focus for the project is the development of technologies made from rare-earth nitrides (RENs). Dr Granville is part of a Te Herenga Waka team that specialises in the physics and industrial potential of the RENs. These materials are both magnetic and semiconducting, and can function at extremely low temperatures, a requirement for quantum computing.
He says the unique combination of magnetism and semiconducting properties in RENs could revolutionise quantum technology, offering increased control over magnetic and electrical behaviours.
“Quantum computers operate at -273°C and need to be connected to conventional computers, which function at room temperature. This creates practical issues related to cabling and energy efficiency.”
While existing superconducting materials can function at these low temperatures, they lack a memory component. Dr Granville says that integrating magnetic materials with superconducting electronics could be the key to developing energy-efficient and fast memory that operates at these extreme temperatures.
He says the team hopes to leverage their expertise in materials science to develop these RENs in the laboratory and incorporate them into integrated circuits.
“Subsequent testing will assess their power needs, memory capacity, and size limitations.
“Because of the Quantum Technologies Aotearoa project, we can now also collaborate with other scientists and companies globally to ensure the technology is universally compatible.”
Dr Granville says the technology could have far-reaching applications, including the simulation of complex climate systems, global financial modelling, and the discovery of new chemical structures—all performed more efficiently than ever before.
“The work being done in New Zealand could significantly contribute to the global push for advancements in quantum technologies.
“You don’t have to look far to see that all over the world, countries are putting a lot of time and money into quantum technologies for this reason. There’s a big race to scale them up, so it’s very exciting that we as a country are part of it now and can hit the ground running.”