IBM has unveiled the first reference architecture for quantum-centric supercomputers, which outlines how quantum computers can be integrated into modern supercomputing environments.
Quantum computing is making progress toward useful simulations of complex quantum systems, and emerging hybrid algorithms are already yielding significant results in fields such as chemistry and materials science.
However, their ability to solve large scientific problems is limited by their separation from the classical supercomputing infrastructure, which still requires the manual transfer and coordination of quantum and classical systems.
To solve this problem, IBM proposes a quantum supercomputing scheme that combines quantum processors (QPUs) with GPUs and CPUs in internal systems, research centers and cloud platforms, allowing different computing technologies to work together in solving problems that are beyond the reach of individual systems.
The architecture brings quantum and classical technologies into a unified computing environment by combining quantum hardware with classical resources, including CPU and GPU clusters, high-speed networking and shared storage to support intensive workloads and algorithm development.
IBM scientists outline a roadmap for this model: first, integrating QPUs as accelerators in existing high-performance computing (HPC) environments; then developing heterogeneous media-enabled platforms that abstract system complexity from users; and finally, creating fully optimized quantum-classical systems designed for end-to-end workflows.
With this foundation, IBM enables coordinated workflows that span both quantum and classical computing.
Integrated orchestration and open-source software frameworks, including Qiskit, enable developers and scientists to access quantum capabilities through familiar development tools and facilitate the development of quantum computing applications in fields such as chemistry, materials science, and optimization.
“Today’s quantum processors are beginning to solve the most difficult parts of scientific problems—those governed by quantum mechanics in chemistry,” said Jay Gambetta, director of research at IBM and an IBM fellow.
“The future is in quantum-centric supercomputers, where quantum processors work with high-performance classical computers to solve problems that were previously unattainable. IBM is building the technology and systems that make this future of computing a reality today.”
