Maryland's Quantum Hub Takes Shape as Microsoft Opens Research Center

The University of Maryland's Discovery District is now home to the Microsoft Quantum Research Center, a state-of-the-art facility that will accelerate investments in quantum computing research. The lab is part of the state's Capital of Quantum initiative, launched in January 2025, which aims to create a public-private partnership between the state, university, and private sector.

According to Gov. Wes Moore (D), Maryland is moving quickly in this space and companies are taking notice. He noted that since last year's announcement that Microsoft would locate its quantum lab in the Discovery District, IQM, Quantum Motion, and Riverlane have established or announced facilities there.

The center will house 'chandeliers' that perform quantum computations at extremely low temperatures, cooled down to -273 degrees Celsius. Principal quantum hardware theorist Edward Chen explained that each chandelier is masked with multiple layers of cooling cylinders that cool the system down to nearly -460 Fahrenheit.

Microsoft's Charlie Tahan said he's impressed by the speed at which the facility was built and appreciative of the state's partnership. He noted that there's a lot of talent in the area, and the proximity to Washington, D.C., makes it an ideal location for hiring top researchers.