Projects

Our research programme spans a range of initiatives that address critical challenges in cryogenic memory, quantum computing, and advanced computing systems.

Each project brings a unique scientific focus and contributes to the development of energy-efficient, scalable technologies. Below is an overview of current projects under this theme.

Cryogenic memory for superconducting and quantum computing

Supported by a grant from the New Zealand Government's Endeavour Fund awarded in 2024, this flagship project aims to deliver a working 100-bit cryogenic memory array. Led by Principal Scientist Dr Simon Granville and Professor Ben Ruck (SCPS), the project focuses on memory devices compatible with superconducting digital logic. The team is using rare-earth nitride materials to achieve fast, low-energy switching at ultra-low temperatures, essential for integration into future superconducting and quantum computing systems.

The project combines materials science, nanofabrication, and circuit modelling, and involves key national and international collaborations. It also lays the groundwork for New Zealand-based manufacturing and the commercial application of superconducting components.

Materials for superconducting spintronics

This fellowship project, led by Dr William Holmes-Hewett, focuses on exploring the physical properties of rare-earth nitrides for next-generation quantum components. Supported by the Tāwhia te Mana Future Leader Fellowship from Royal Society Te Apārangi, the research investigates how the electronic and magnetic behaviour of these materials can be tuned to advance the current understanding of magnetic Josephson junctions and their application in superconducting and quantum circuits.

The project supports the broader cryogenic computing goals at Paihau—Robinson, with potential applications in both memory and logic circuits.

Microwave circulators for quantum computing

Led by Dr Jackson Miller, this research, supported by a $1 million 2025 Smart Idea from the New Zealand government’s Endeavour Fund, is on the development of on-chip microwave circulators for quantum computing to tackle a key bottleneck in the global race to build large-scale quantum systems.

Microwave circulators are crucial for quantum computing, but their size is a limiting factor. By miniaturising these devices and integrating them directly onto chips, this research could remove one of the biggest obstacles to scaling up quantum technology.

The implications are enormous: enabling a new generation of quantum computers, opening commercial pathways, and establishing New Zealand as a serious player in the international quantum supply chain.

Quantum Technologies Aotearoa

As a national initiative, Quantum Technologies Aotearoa (QTA) brings together leading research groups across New Zealand to accelerate quantum innovation. Paihau—Robinson contributes expertise in superconducting devices and spintronics, with a focus on scalable hardware solutions. Our team collaborates closely with other institutions in developing quantum-enabling technologies and aligning Aotearoa’s research priorities with global progress.  We receive funding support from QTA for our cryogenic memory project—Hybrid superconducting-ferromagnetic memory concepts for scalable quantum computers.

Fluorescent memories

Dr Shen Chong’s project investigates the use of optically active magnetic materials to create fluorescent memory elements. The goal is to develop data storage that can be written magnetically and read optically, using materials that emit light in response to their magnetic state.

This cross-disciplinary work explores an emerging class of memory devices, particularly relevant for hybrid computing platforms that combine optical communication with magnetic data storage. It aims to address the growing need for fast, compact, and non-volatile memory systems in advanced computing.

Optical computing for cryogenic logic

Dr Joe Schuyt’s project focuses on integrating optical signal processing into cryogenic environments. It explores how light-based communication and computation can be combined with superconducting circuits to reduce power consumption and increase processing speed.

The project evaluates new device architectures where optical links replace traditional electrical interconnects, improving energy efficiency and thermal isolation within superconducting systems. This research aligns with long-term goals for scalable, low-power quantum computing infrastructure.

International collaborations—Advancing quantum materials and devices

Nagoya Quantum technologies
A microscope image of a chip containing superconducting quantum devices, with highlights from electrical characterisation and simulations. These devices are up to thousands of times smaller than a pinhead, showing just how precise superconducting device fabrication can be. Courtesy of Nagoya University.
Magnetic field of Nagoya SC magnet.
Magnetic fringe field simulations of a cut plane circle memory element for superconducting electronics.

The collaboration between Nagoya University and the Paihau—Robinson Research Institute brings together our world-class expertise in quantum materials with Japan’s advances in precision device engineering. Through this partnership, Robinson’s advanced materials, such as rare-earth nitrides, are sent to Nagoya University, where leading-edge device fabrication and characterisation are performed. Nagoya’s group has developed highly intricate device structures that are gaining new functionalities thanks to our materials, providing the groundwork to develop more energy-efficient quantum logic circuits from superconducting devices.

The partnership between Robinson’s materials innovation and Nagoya’s device expertise demonstrates how New Zealand's scientific strengths are accelerating quantum technology research. This collaboration exemplifies how global cooperation drives progress from materials discovery to real-world device applications.

Future initiatives

We continue to seek opportunities to expand our research portfolio. Upcoming proposals aim to deepen our work on quantum-compatible memory and logic systems, explore novel superconducting materials, and build partnerships for prototype fabrication. More project details will be added as new initiatives are confirmed.