Unveiling the Quantum Frontier: Professor Keisuke Fujii
Introduction: A Pioneer in Quantum Computing
Professor Keisuke Fujii, a leading researcher at Osaka University, is at the forefront of quantum computing research in Japan. His work focuses on practical applications and overcoming the key hurdle of error correction in quantum computations, making him a prominent figure in shaping the future of quantum technologies.
Biography: From Kyoto to Quantum Advancement
Professor Fujii’s academic journey began at Kyoto University, culminating in a degree in engineering in 2011. Following a series of research positions at Osaka University, Kyoto University, and the University of Tokyo, he became a Professor at Osaka University’s Graduate School of Engineering Science in 2019. His expertise spans the software, theory, and industrial applications of quantum computing, positioning him perfectly to explore and exploit cutting-edge research.
Achievements: Revolutionizing Quantum Computing
Professor Fujii’s work centers around two key areas:
- Error-Resistant Quantum Computation: Recognizing that quantum computers are susceptible to errors (noise), Professor Fujii has dedicated himself to developing quantum error correction techniques. This has led to a significant collaboration with Fujitsu, resulting in the creation of a practical, error-resistant computation scheme—dubbed “Star Architecture”—capable of working efficiently with tens of thousands of qubits. This innovation is a crucial step towards realizing larger, more powerful, and reliable quantum computers.
- Quantum Algorithms and Societal Impact: Beyond error correction, Professor Fujii explores the development of innovative algorithms that can leverage the unique capabilities of quantum computers. He is focused on finding ways to solve computationally intensive problems, such as those related to drug discovery, advanced materials, and the advancement of artificial intelligence.
Current Research: Towards a “Moonshot” in Error Correction
Professor Fujii’s primary research interest continues to be quantum error correction. He aims to perfect technologies that can completely eliminate errors during quantum computations. The long-term goal is to build universal, fault-tolerant quantum computers, capable of tackling complex problems inaccessible to classical computers. With the potential for a million qubits, the technology is aimed at making all quantum calculations completely reliable, and opens up an exciting future.
Collaboration with Fujitsu and “Star Architecture”
The collaboration with Fujitsu has been particularly fruitful. Professor Fujii’s team developed the FTQC system, using “Star Architecture”, a new computation scheme that dramatically reduces the number of qubits needed for practical quantum calculations. Where previously a million qubits might have been thought necessary, this new technique requires only a few tens of thousands (specifically, 60,000 qubits). As a result, calculations that take approximately five years on a current supercomputer can be performed in about 10 hours. This has opened up prospects for material properties calculations, such as analyzing the Hubbard model for complex systems like superconductivity.
The joint research, which started in 2020, led to the establishment of the Fujitsu Quantum Computing Joint Research Division at Osaka University in 2021. While the announced 256-qubit quantum computer is a positive step, Professor Fujii’s work focuses on achieving practical error-resistant computations using the “Star Architecture”.
Public Engagement: Inspiring the Next Generation
Professor Fujii recognizes the importance of public awareness. He collaborates with institutions like Miraikan, a science museum in Tokyo, to create hands-on exhibits. These interactive displays, featuring elements like music and DJ experiences, allow visitors to experience quantum concepts, such as superposition, in an engaging way. This outreach helps to cultivate interest and understanding of quantum computing among the general public and hopefully inspires future generations of researchers and engineers.
Conclusion: A Promising Path for the Future
Professor Keisuke Fujii’s research provides significant contributions to the development of error-resistant quantum computation. With “Star Architecture” and other breakthroughs, he is paving the way for impactful quantum computers that will revolutionize science and society. His dedication to both fundamental research and public engagement makes him a leading light in the global quantum computing community.
