Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center Will Build New Hybrid Quantum-Classical Supercomputer

The Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center is set to launch TangleLab, a new hybrid quantum-classical supercomputing testbed. Supported by a 5 million dollar grant from the National Science Foundation, the project is a collaboration between the center, HPE, and Rigetti Computing. Construction begins in September 2026, with the facility reaching full operational capacity in 2027.

This system combines a Rigetti Novera quantum processing unit with HPE high-performance computing hardware, including ProLiant servers and Cray storage. By integrating these distinct technologies, TangleLab aims to address complex research problems that traditional computers often struggle to solve. It serves as a testing ground for scientists and students to explore workflows that mix classical processing with quantum mechanics.

Accessibility is a core priority for the project. The center will manage a competitive proposal process to allocate computer time, ensuring researchers and educators can use the equipment for their specific work. Beyond pure computing power, the staff will provide training and technical consulting to support users with varying levels of experience in quantum science.

This initiative acts as a prototype for future cyberinfrastructure. By creating a model where quantum processors work alongside existing high-performance systems, the team expects to develop methods for broader industry adoption. The project aligns with national research priorities for 2027, focusing on long-term advancements in artificial intelligence and information science.