Spain at the forefront of quantum computing: chips made in Spain, built in Barcelona

The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) has unveiled a groundbreaking Quantum Nanofabrication Area within the Institute of Microelectronics of Barcelona (IMB-CNM). This state-of-the-art facility, boasting an investment of over six million euros, is the largest research infrastructure of its kind in Spain. Funded through the PERTE Chip and the Complementary Plan for Quantum Communications, the new area houses cutting-edge instruments such as Spain's most advanced electron-beam lithography system, as well as advanced microscopes and metrology tools capable of inspecting structures at the nanometre scale.

With this advanced infrastructure, CSIC aims to bolster Spain's capabilities in semiconductors and quantum technologies, facilitating the transition from research to industrial development. The initiative also aligns with CSIC's broader strategy to consolidate its position in the quantum field, which includes the establishment of the QuARC-CSIC Centre for Quantum Science and Technologies.

The new QuARC-CSIC Centre will serve as the epicenter for quantum research, attracting top talent and fostering collaboration both within Spain and internationally. With a presence in Madrid, housed in the former Cajal Institute facilities, the centre will consolidate CSIC's existing strengths in quantum sciences, encompassing research lines in physics, computing, mathematics, engineering, and chemistry.

The Madrid headquarters will be bolstered by the recruitment of new staff, with several positions reserved specifically for this specialty. The centre will serve as a hub for research, training, and collaboration, positioning Spain at the forefront of quantum technologies.