The Institute of Advanced Sciences (IAS) at Yokohama National University (YNU) and the High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) have signed a collaboration agreement to advance research in quantum science and accelerate the creation of future applications based on quantum technologies. The agreement was concluded on October 17, 2025, and will be effective from November 1, 2025, to March 31, 2031.
Under this partnership, the two institutions will combine their strengths to promote both foundational and applied research in quantum science, aiming to drive innovation for the next generation of quantum technologies.
QIC: Leading Quantum Research and Innovation at YNU
At the core of YNU’s contribution to this collaboration is the Quantum Information Research Center (QIC), established within IAS in 2020. QIC conducts cutting-edge research in quantum internet and quantum computing using diamond nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers as quantum bits, and develops ultralow-power superconducting circuits for future quantum applications.
The center is also engaged in major national and international initiatives, including:
- Moonshot Research and Development Program (Cabinet Office, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)) – “Development of Quantum Interfaces for Building Quantum Computer Networks”
- Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) National Project – “Research and Development of Key Technologies for Realizing the Quantum Internet”
- ASPIRE – Japan–Germany Quantum Technologies Joint Research Project
Through these activities, QIC contributes to advancing quantum interface and control technologies essential for realizing secure quantum networks and future quantum internet systems.
Synergy with KEK’s Quantum Field Research
KEK, known for its world-class particle accelerator facilities, promotes fundamental research that deepens humanity’s understanding of the universe, matter, and life. In 2021, KEK established the International Center for Quantum-field Measurement Systems for Studies of the Universe and Particles (QUP) under Japan’s World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI).
QUP aims to invent and develop new systems for measuring quantum fields, pursue interdisciplinary fusion research, and create new social value through applications of quantum measurement technologies.
Toward a Future Quantum Society
By sharing research facilities, expertise, and human resources, QIC and KEK will maximize their strengths to advance quantum science. The collaboration will further promote research on quantum interfaces, as well as advanced quantum control, detection, and materials technologies in particle and high-energy physics.
In addition to driving progress toward secure quantum network technologies and future “quantum web” applications, the two institutions will focus on cultivating the next generation of quantum professionals. Through these efforts, they aim to contribute as world-leading research organizations to the realization of a future society powered by quantum technologies.
(This article is based on the official Japanese press release jointly issued by the Institute of Advanced Sciences (IAS), Yokohama National University, and the High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) on October 31, 2025.)
