Hybrid breakthrough in quantum computing workflow unveiled

Quantum Brilliance, Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre, and Nvidia have collaborated on a new hybrid workflow for quantum computing integration, marking a significant development in the field.

The initiative has resulted in a workflow that harmonises GPU, CPU, and quantum processing capabilities to benefit real-world applications. This integrated approach aims to enhance quantum exploration, particularly in data processing and artificial intelligence by allowing different processing units to operate collectively.

Quantum Brilliance's virtual Quantum Processing Unit (vQPU) plays a central role in this workflow, offering a flexible and scalable path for researchers and enterprises to explore quantum computing. This system is supported by Nvidia GH200 Grace Hopper Superchips, hosted at Pawsey, and is designed to be hardware-agnostic, functioning much like a universal adapter for computing platforms.

The hybrid workflow acts as a universal translator, facilitating the collaboration of different processors to address complex problems. A priority is its ability to interact with both virtual and physical quantum computers in a uniform language. It integrates seamlessly with high-performance computing clusters through tools like the SLURM job scheduler, enhancing its accessibility and potential for widespread adoption.

"What we've developed is essentially a conductor for a technological orchestra, where quantum and classical computers can work in harmony to solve complex problems," said Dr. Pascal Elahi, Quantum Team Lead at Pawsey. "Previous approaches focused on quantum algorithms in isolation, but real-world problems require seamless integration of multiple computing technologies."

Sam Stanwyck, Group Product Manager for quantum computing at Nvidia, remarked, "This novel hybrid workflow demonstrates that accelerated computing is key to advancing quantum computing. Nvidia collaborates with innovators, like Quantum Brilliance and Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre, to bring us closer to running useful quantum applications."

Quantum Brilliance's vQPU offers a practical introduction to quantum computing by simulating the functionality of physical quantum processors. This makes it a scalable, high-performance option that can be incorporated into high-performance computing environments, adjustable according to the complexity required by specific circuits.

"By successfully integrating our virtual QPU into Pawsey's workflow, we're demonstrating that quantum computing is not just theoretical – it is set to become a practical tool for solving real-world problems," noted Andrea Tabacchini, VP of Quantum Solutions at Quantum Brilliance. "This dynamic virtual-physical hybrid capability positions Australia at the forefront of quantum and supercomputing convergence, strengthening national infrastructure and quantum technology leadership."

This technology has significant implications for various fields, including radio astronomy data processing, artificial intelligence workflows, and bioinformatics. These areas can greatly benefit from the hybrid quantum-classical computing approach to expedite computational tasks.

Looking forward, the collaboration aims to implement the workflow on Pawsey's Setonix supercomputer, integrating physical quantum computers, thus advancing the use of quantum computing for commercial and scientific purposes. By coherently linking CPU, GPU, and QPU resources, the development supports greater experimentation in quantum-enhanced problem-solving across diverse domains.