Guest Lecture: Quantum Computing: Basics, Applications, QC in Japan, innovations for scale-up

Quantum Computing: Basics, Applications, QC in Japan, innovations for scale-up

Prof. Nobuyuki Yoshikawa, Institute of Advanced Sciences, Yokohama National University, Yokohama, Japan

Abstract:

This lecture begins with an accessible introduction to quantum computing for non-STEM students, including those with a business background, and continues with the following topic: current technological progress; major application areas such as optimization, chemistry, and cryptography; the growing economic and industrial impact of quantum technology. I will discuss, in general, the interest and activities in Japan for this field. In particular, my research group is working on an electronics technology which can help with the quantum circuit interface with a goal of enabling efficient scale-up, within acceptable size, weight, and power, to reach the main goal of fault-tolerant quantum computers. The technology developed in my group is called Adiabatic Quantum Flux Parametron. I will conclude with an estimate of the likelihood of technological success and a projected timeline for commercial and business success.

Biography:

Dr. Nobuyuki Yoshikawa is a Professor at the Institute of Advanced Sciences (IAS), Yokohama National University (YNU), Japan, where he leads the Superconducting Electronics Laboratory. His research pioneers ultra-energy-efficient computing using superconducting integrated circuits. He is widely recognized for advancing Adiabatic Quantum-Flux-Parametron (AQFP) and Single-Flux-Quantum (SFQ) technologies, including the development of the world’s first AQFP-based microprocessor, which achieved energy consumption more than five orders of magnitude lower than conventional CMOS. 

Prof. Yoshikawa also investigates reversible superconducting logic toward the thermodynamic limits of computation. His recent efforts extend these technologies toward scalable integration for quantum computing systems and cryogenic computing platforms. 

Prof. Yoshikawa received the 2023 IEEE Council on Superconductivity Award for Continuing and Significant Contributions in Applied Superconductivity and is an IEEE Fellow.