A Pitt-led team plans to automate quantum computing research with a Department of Energy grant

A research team at the University of Pittsburgh is tackling the complexity of quantum computing through a new project backed by the U.S. Department of Energy. Led by Professor Youtao Zhang, the initiative focuses on measurement-based quantum computing, which uses interconnected networks of qubits rather than the standard circuit-based approach. This method holds potential for breakthroughs in chemistry and materials science but currently requires massive computational power that is difficult for human researchers to manage alone.

To bridge this gap, the Pitt team is deploying AI agents to handle the heavy lifting. These agents are designed to perform specific research tasks, such as determining measurement strategies, creating new scientific principles, and managing hardware performance. By automating these workflows, the researchers aim to bypass the limitations that have slowed progress in the field so far. The project involves faculty from Pitt’s School of Computing and Information alongside partners at Virginia Tech and Argonne National Laboratory.

The effort is part of the Department of Energy Genesis Mission, a national initiative that integrates artificial intelligence, supercomputing, and quantum systems. Another Pitt researcher, Pranava Teja Surukuchi, is also supporting a separate Genesis project focused on neutrinoless double-beta decay. These projects reflect a broader push to link government, industry, and academic resources to solve complex scientific challenges. As these AI agents gain experience, the team expects to develop a scalable pipeline for quantum research that could contribute to significant future discoveries.