Singapore is strengthening its role in the global quantum hardware ecosystem through a new collaboration between researchers at the National Quantum Federated Foundry (NQFF) and Qolab, a quantum computing company co-founded by 2025 Physics Nobel Laureate Professor John M. Martinis.
Qolab will work with Singapore researchers to develop new components essential for scaling next-generation quantum computing systems.
The research focuses on developing critical components, specifically cryogenic low-pass filters, for quantum processor chips1. These filters address a critical bottleneck in building larger, more powerful quantum computers.
Building useful quantum computers requires scaling from dozens to millions of qubits, and that means we need not just more qubits but also reliable, manufacturable supporting hardware.”
Professor Martinis, Chief Technology Officer and Co-founder of Qolab
“Singapore’s strong capabilities in advanced semiconductor manufacturing makes it an ideal partner for Qolab as we develop critical components that will support the next generation of quantum computing.”
This collaboration comes as global momentum in quantum hardware accelerates. Through sustained research, innovation and enterprise (RIE) investments, Singapore has continued strengthening its capabilities across semiconductor manufacturing, advanced engineering, and quantum device development. This unique intersection of strengths, combined with Singapore’s open and collaborative approach to international partnerships, has positioned the country as an attractive base for leading quantum technology companies looking to develop and scale critical hardware.
The role of cryogenic filters in quantum computing
Superconducting qubits are one of the most mature and pioneering technology used by technology industry leaders to power quantum processors. These operate at temperatures close to absolute zero and are extremely sensitive to environmental noise. Cryogenic low-pass filters act as shields, blocking unwanted high-frequency signals. However, conventional filter solutions currently used in quantum computers are large, subject to errors, and difficult to manufacture at scale.
The collaboration will leverage complementary strengths from NQFF’s quantum device nanofabrication capabilities, and Qolab’s quantum computing systems expertise towards developing cryogenic filters that can be manufactured on semiconductor wafers – similar to how computer chips are made. This approach enables denser integration of filters directly with qubit circuits, allowing more qubits to fit into smaller, more reliable packages. The filters are expected to be deployed in quantum systems at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
“This collaboration demonstrates how Singapore can contribute critical quantum hardware components to the global ecosystem,” said Mr Ling Keok Tong, Executive Director of the National Quantum Office. “It brings together our strengths in semiconductor engineering, advanced manufacturing and quantum research to address real-world hardware challenges. With partners such as UCLA already committed to deploying these filters, it signals growing confidence in Singapore’s capabilities and strengthens our role in the global quantum supply chain.”
The National Quantum Office (NQO) was established with the support of the National Research Foundation (NRF) to drive the development and implementation of the National Quantum Strategy in Singapore. The Office was set up in April 2022 and is hosted by Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), the Implementing Agency for Quantum. NQO, as a control tower, supports fundamental and translational research in Quantum through various strategic programmes that it oversees.
The research collaboration agreement was signed between NQFF and Qolab and witnessed by Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo. It was part of a quantum-related event today which commenced with opening remarks by Guest-of-Honour Minister Josephine Teo.
The event featured a public guest lecture – organised by the National Quantum Office, a national platform hosted by the A*STAR, and the National Research Foundation – by Professor Martinis on the history of superconducting qubits and the NQFF Industry Day, which showcased quantum hardware developments from industry partners and leading global players.
The National Quantum Federated Foundry (NQFF) is one of the national-level quantum programmes set up under the National Quantum Strategy to consolidate Singapore’s expertise and capabilities across the ecosystem. As a federated foundry, NQFF accesses Singapore’s existing network of cleanrooms whilst augmenting them with unique capabilities critical for quantum technologies. It drives the translation of quantum research towards practical quantum technologies and real-world solutions, serving as a unified platform for Singapore’s engagements with international partners. NQFF also supports other national quantum programmes, such as the National Quantum Processor Initiative.
[1] About cryogenic low-pass filters and quantum processors
Cryogenic low-pass filters are specialised components that operate at extremely low temperatures (near absolute zero). They play a critical role in ensuring the accurate operation of the qubits by shielding the superconducting circuits from unwanted microwave noise.
The filters being developed through this collaboration are designed for solid-state quantum processors, including superconducting qubit systems (used by leading technology companies) and spin qubit systems (an emerging approach using electron or nuclear spin). Both types require precise signal control and noise reduction to scale effectively.
