IonQ and Sandia National Laboratories Partner on Quantum Technology Research

Insider Brief

• IonQ and Sandia National Laboratories have signed an MOU to explore quantum technology co-design efforts focused on computing, networking, and national security applications.
• The collaboration will examine areas including quantum system optimisation, device development, testing, and mission-relevant use cases involving trapped-ion fabrication and silicon photonics.
• IonQ’s partnership with Sandia expands its engagement with U.S. national laboratories through the Quantum Demonstration Facility in New Mexico.

Press release – IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a leading quantum platform company, today announced it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Sandia National Laboratories, to explore accelerated co-design of quantum information science technologies in support of U.S. national security innovation.

“Big breakthroughs often happen when government and industry work together, from the Manhattan Project to the Space Race,” said IonQ Chairman and CEO Niccolo de Masi. “That’s why partnerships like the one between IonQ and Sandia National Laboratories matter so much. They could help shape the future of quantum technology—and play an important role in our economic and national security.”

“Sandia National Laboratories is committed to advancing quantum technologies that will underpin the future of national security and economic competitiveness,” said Toby Townsend, Associate Laboratories Director for Deterrence, Science and Energy. “Our partnership with IonQ leverages the strengths of both organizations to accelerate innovation in quantum computing and networking. Together, we aim to translate cutting-edge research into practical solutions that address critical government missions and help maintain U.S. leadership in this transformative field.”

IonQ and Sandia intend to explore a range of technical areas tied to quantum system co-design and mission-relevant use cases. The MOU supports broader research and innovation activities related to system optimization, device development, characterization and testing, and the advancement of quantum capabilities aligned with U.S. economic competitiveness and national security priorities.

“Sandia fabricated the ion traps that IonQ‘s earliest quantum computers were built on, so this collaboration has a historic pedigree,” said Dr. Rick Muller, SVP and Chief Scientist, IonQ Federal. “What’s new is the scope. We’re putting our hardware and applications teams alongside Sandia’s expertise in trapped-ion fabrication and silicon photonics. These two areas most directly determine how fast quantum computers scale and how well they connect to one another.”

The Quantum Demonstration Facility is a research and commercialization hub at Sandia National Laboratories established to explore public-private collaboration models that can accelerate innovation in quantum technologies. It offers impartial third-party verification for pathways to utility-scale quantum computers, enhances research and development efforts and effectively communicates findings to U.S. government stakeholders.

IonQ’s participation expands the company’s footprint into New Mexico while supporting a growing ecosystem focused on the development and deployment of next-generation quantum systems.