October 1, 2021
Osaka UniversityFujitsu Limited

Fujitsu and Osaka University Deepen Collaborative Research and Development for FaultTolerant Quantum Computers
Osaka University, Fujitsu Limited
News Facts:
Osaka University and Fujitsu established the Fujitsu Quantum Computing Joint Research Division as acollaborative research program of the Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology (QIQB) of OsakaUniversity
The joint research division will combine QIQB’s advanced quantum error correction and quantum software
technologies with Fujitsu’s applied knowledge in computing and quantum technologies to strengthen R&D in
fault-tolerant quantum computing technology
Fault-tolerant quantum computing, capable of accurate and large-scale high-speed calculations using quantum
error correction codes offers potential to contribute to further progress in fields like drug discovery and financeTokyo, October 1, 2021 – Osaka University and Fujitsu Limited today announced the establishment of the Fujitsu
Quantum Computing Joint Research Division as a collaborative research division at the Center for Quantum
Information and Quantum Biology (hereinafter QIQB) of Osaka University.
The newly-established research division will focus on the development of foundational technologies for faulttolerant quantum computers, which are able to perform accurate calculations while correcting errors that occur inquantum bits (qubits). These efforts will draw on the respective strengths of the two partners, combining QIQB’s
advanced quantum error correction and quantum software technologies with Fujitsu’s applied knowledge incomputing and quantum technologies.
More specifically, QIQB and Fujitsu aim to develop quantum software for fault-tolerant quantum computers withup to several thousand qubits as well as technologies to verify its error correcting operations.
Going forward, the two partners will strengthen their cooperation in R&D towards the realization of fault-tolerant
quantum computing technologies to innovate solutions to complex societal problems through quantum
technology.
Background
Quantum computers, which make use of the principles of quantum mechanics including quantum superposition
states and quantum entanglement (Note 1), offer the potential to one day revolutionize computing, significantly
exceeding the capabilities of conventional computing technologies to perform high-speed calculations.
Fault-tolerant quantum computing, capable of accurate and large-scale high-speed calculations using error
correction codes, may become a key technology especially in the fields of drug discovery and finance, which
require a technology able to solve complex and large-scale problems at high speed.
In March 2020, Osaka University established QIQB in order to promote quantum information and quantum biology
research, focusing on research in a wide range of fields ranging from quantum computing, quantum information
fusion, quantum information devices, quantum communications and security, quantum measurement and sensing,and quantum biology.

QIQB has also been chosen as the main center for quantum software research in the field of quantum
technology of the COI-NEXT program (Note 2) of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and thus plays
an important role in Japan’s strategy for quantum technology innovation.
Cooperating with domestic and overseas research institutes, Fujitsu has been engaged in full-scale research anddevelopment of quantum computing since 2020, aiming to further improve the performance of computing
technologies.
Leveraging its quantum-inspired computing (Note 3) solution "Digital Annealer", which is designed to solve largescale combinatorial optimization problems, Fujitsu is providing customers solutions in various fields like drug
discovery and logistics.
In October 2020, Fujitsu started collaborative research (Note 4) with Osaka University on quantum error
correction. The establishment of the "Fujitsu Quantum Computing Joint Research Unit" will further strengthen
R&D in fault-tolerant quantum computer systems.
Outline of the Joint Research
1. Name: Fujitsu Quantum Computing Joint Research Division
2. Location: Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology (QIQB), International Advanced ResearchInstitute (IARI), Osaka University (Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture)
3. Research Period: October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2024
4. Research Contents: R&D of Quantum Software for fault-tolerant quantum computers*Assuming a quantum computer with a scale of several thousand qubits, the joint division will research anddevelop an error correction algorithm able to restore the original information from faulty qubits, as well as
technologies to evaluate the performance of this algorithm.
*In order to perform quantum computation using logical qubits (Note 5) generated through quantum error
correction codes, the joint division will focus on the R&D and implementation of a set of software solutions
required from program input to the result output.
With regard to future practical applications of this technology, the division will furthermore verify the operationof these solutions using a virtual machine environment to evaluate the effects of noise add up.
Roles and Responsibilities
Osaka University- contribution to further R&D in the field of quantum error correction technology on a scale of several thousand
qubits based on its knowledge of quantum error correction technology- development of a set of software necessary for performing quantum computation using logical qubits andverify its application in a virtual machine
Fujitsu- generation of quantum error correction algorithms for quantum computers on a scale of several thousand
qubits based on its expertise in computing- development of a set of software necessary for performing quantum computation using logical qubits;
application of the software to a virtual machine and verification of its operation
Future Plans
In order to contribute to the further development of quantum computing science and technology, Osaka
University and Fujitsu will strengthen their cooperation with a variety of research institutions and companies.
Through the practical application of the results of this joint research, the partners aim to contribute to an earlypractical application of quantum computing with the potential to drive innovations and create a sustainablesociety.
Osaka University and Fujitsu will also collaborate with related industries and the academia to support thetraining of new human resources in the field of quantum technology.
All company or product names mentioned herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
owners. Information provided in this press release is accurate at time of publication and is subject to change
without advance notice.
Notes[1] Quantum entanglement:
Quantum mechanical phenomenon of nonlocal correlations between two distant systems[2] COI-NEXT:
Industry-academia collaboration program in which universities and other organizations take the lead informulating a vision for a future society. The aim of this program is to promote ongoing research anddevelopment towards the realization of this vision, as well as to form an independent, collaborative unitof industry, academia and government members able to deliver results even after the completion of theproject. In 2020, QIQB was chosen as an international research hub for policy focused areas (quantumtechnology) of the program. (Quantum Information and Quantum Life Research Center, Osaka University(QIQB) HP https://qiqb.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/coi-next/)[3] Quantum-inspired technology:
A number of acceleration technologies inspired by quantum technology, but not quantum effects.
[4] Joint research on quantum error correction:"Fujitsu Commences Joint Research with World-Leading Institutions for Innovations in Quantum
Computing" (October 13, 2020 press release
https://www.fujitsu.com/global/about/resources/news/press-releases/2020/1013-02.html)[5] Logical qubits:
Qubits able to perform quantum logical operations without errors. Logical qubits are generated throughthe encoding of multiple qubits by a code able to correct quantum error codes.
About Osaka University
Osaka University was founded in 1931 as one of the seven imperial universities of Japan and is now one ofJapan's leading comprehensive universities with a broad disciplinary spectrum. This strength is coupled with asingular drive for innovation that extends throughout the scientific process, from fundamental research to thecreation of applied technology with positive economic impacts. Its commitment to innovation has beenrecognized in Japan and around the world, being named Japan's most innovative university in 2015 (Reuters2015 Top 100) and one of the most innovative institutions in the world in 2017 (Innovative Universities andthe Nature Index Innovation 2017). Now, Osaka University is leveraging its role as a Designated National
University Corporation selected by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology tocontribute to innovation for human welfare, sustainable development of society, and social transformation.
Website: https://resou.osaka-u.ac.jp/en
About Fujitsu
Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company offering a full rangeof technology products, solutions and services. Approximately 126,000 Fujitsu people support customers inmore than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with ourcustomers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.6 trillion yen (US$34 billion) for thefiscal year ended March 31, 2021. For more information, please see www.fujitsu.com.
Press contacts
Osaka University
International Advanced Research Institute, Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Biology

COI-NEXT, Quantum Software Research HubE-mail: coi-next@qiqb.osaka-u.ac.jp
Fujitsu Ltd.
Public and Investor Relations Division
Inquiries: https://www.fujitsu.com/global/about/resources/news/presscontacts/form/index.html