NSF National Quantum Virtual Laboratory (NQVL)
Funding Agency:
- National Science Foundation
The National Quantum Initiative (NQI) Act1 aims to ensure the continuing leadership of the United States (U.S.) in quantum information science and technology. In conformance with the NQI goals, an argument2 3 4 5 was set forth for a renewed emphasis on identifying and fostering early adoption of quantum technologies to transform the field of Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE) and to accelerate broader impacts on society. A systematic approach to maturing quantum technology platforms by integrating end-users and potential customers from other fields of science and engineering and other sectors of the economy into cycles of research, development, and demonstration should result in lowering the barriers for end-users to pioneer new applications. NSF support for use-inspired and translational research in QISE, combined with its existing strength in support of the underlying foundational research, is anticipated to accelerate development of a market for quantum technologies.
With this program solicitation, the Foundation is introducing the National Quantum Virtual Laboratory (NQVL) concept as an overarching shared infrastructure designed to facilitate the translation from basic science and engineering to the resultant technology, while at the same time emphasizing and advancing its scientific and technical value. The NQVL aims to develop and utilize use-inspired and application-oriented quantum technologies. In the process, NQVL researchers will explore quantum frontiers6, foster QISE workforce education and training, engage in outreach activities at all levels, and promote broadening participation, diversity, equity, and inclusion in QISE, thereby lowering barriers at all entry points of the research enterprise. The engagement of the entire United States (U.S.) QISE community will be necessary for this initiative to succeed, and, indeed, the project is designed to include participation from a full spectrum of organizations who have expertise to contribute. In particular, NSF recognizes that the involvement of industry partners is essential and will welcome these to be a part of the overall structure. Partnerships with other U.S. Federal agencies under the NQI umbrella are also encouraged.
This solicitation lays out a vision for the entire NQVL program that includes Quantum Science and Technology Demonstration (QSTD) projects, support for enabling technologies through Transformative Advances in Quantum Systems (TAQS), as well as a central coordination hub. Proposals for Pilot phase QSTDs are solicited at this time.
Standard Grant
$10,000,000
Institutional Pre-Proposal Submission: Please contact Shawn Chester at shawn.chester@njit.edu with an internal Letter of Intent including extended summary, intellectual merit, broader impact and budget outline sections by September 1, 2023 to check if an institutional review/approval is needed (in case of multiple proposals).
November 30, 2023
National Quantum Virtual Laboratory, telephone: (703) 292-8235, email: NQVL@nsf.gov