The FreeYa Mind Campus, set to be completed by 2026, aims to cultivate a dynamic ecosystem focused on education, research, and entrepreneurship in quantum computing and artificial intelligence.
The campus will feature state-of-the-art research laboratories, collaborative spaces, and an extensive AI data center. By providing access to IBM’s advanced quantum computing systems via the cloud, the center offers students and professionals unparalleled opportunities to engage directly with cutting-edge technologies. This initiative is expected to address the growing demand for quantum expertise across various sectors, including medical research, cryptography, and advanced artificial intelligence algorithms.
Cornel Scripcă, co-founder of the FreeYa Mind Campus, during the launch event on Wednesday (March 5) emphasized the project’s comprehensive approach: “We envision this ecosystem from three perspectives: education, research, and then innovation and entrepreneurship.” He highlighted that Iași has been benefiting from the quantum revolution and the extraordinary power of a quantum computer since February.
The center will also house advanced research facilities dedicated to quantum computing, physics, and engineering, supported by a high-performance underground data center. This infrastructure aims to accelerate the development of practical quantum applications and foster collaboration between academia and industry.
Cristian Berariu, initiator of the FreeYa Mind Campus project, noted: “Quantum technology is the future. This cooperation with IBM allows us to provide access to top educational resources and research infrastructure. Together, we are preparing the next generations for the challenges and opportunities of the quantum revolution and transforming the city of Iași into a European landmark in this field.”
Cerasela Baiculescu, Country General Manager, IBM Romania and Moldova, told the press: “This project is unique in Romania. This collaboration with the FreeYa Mind Campus sets the groundwork in place for the development of a state-of-the-art multidisciplinary scientific hub in Iasi.
Senate Vice President Robert Cazanciuc, who attended the event in Iași, emphasized that technological progress can be either accelerated or hindered by legislative frameworks. Speaking to AGERPRES, he pointed to the ongoing European debate on AI regulation as a key example of how policy decisions shape the trajectory of innovation.
Why Iași is Becoming a Major Tech Hub
Iași has emerged as one of Romania’s leading technology hubs, attracting global giants like Amazon, and IBM. The city home to Alexandru Ioan Cuza University and Gheorghe Asachi Technical University, both producing highly skilled graduates in IT, engineering, and physics. A steady flow of tech talent makes it an attractive location for companies seeking innovation-driven employees. Meanwhile, startup incubators, accelerators, and research centers have created a thriving tech environment. Compared to Western Europe, Iași offers significantly lower operational costs, making it an ideal destination for multinational companies.
Understanding Quantum Technology
Quantum technology leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in fundamentally new ways. Unlike classical bits, which can represent either a 0 or a 1, quantum bits, or qubits, can exist in multiple states simultaneously—a phenomenon known as superposition. This allows quantum computers to perform complex calculations at unprecedented speeds, making them particularly suited for tasks like molecular simulations, cryptography, and optimization problems.
IBM’s Vision for Quantum Computing
IBM has been at the forefront of quantum computing research, with CEO Arvind Krishna expressing optimism about the technology’s trajectory. He anticipates significant advancements in error correction and coherence times over the next three to five years, which are crucial for the practical implementation of quantum systems. Krishna envisions industries such as materials science, pharmaceuticals, and energy benefiting from quantum-powered discoveries, positioning IBM as a dominant provider of functional quantum systems.
Europe’s First IBM Quantum Data Center
In October 2024, IBM inaugurated its first European Quantum Data Center in Ehningen, Germany. This facility, the second of its kind globally, underscores IBM’s commitment to advancing quantum computing capabilities in Europe, the birthplace of quantum physics. The data center provides European clients with cloud-based access to IBM’s most advanced quantum systems, facilitating compliance with regional data protection regulations and promoting innovation across various industries.
Leading Quantum Computing Companies
- IBM Quantum – A pioneer in quantum computing, IBM has developed superconducting quantum processors and provides access to quantum computers through its IBM Quantum Network.
- Google Quantum AI – Known for achieving quantum supremacy with Sycamore, Google continues to develop advanced quantum processors for scalable applications.
- Microsoft Quantum – Focuses on topological qubits and offers quantum computing resources through Azure Quantum.
- Rigetti Computing – A leading quantum hardware company developing superconducting qubit systems and cloud-accessible quantum services.
- D-Wave Systems – Specializes in quantum annealing technology, offering practical quantum solutions for optimization problems.
- IonQ – A company pioneering trapped-ion quantum computing, providing high-fidelity qubits for commercial applications.
- Honeywell Quantum Solutions – Develops high-fidelity trapped-ion quantum processors with strong industrial applications.
- Xanadu – A Canadian company leading in photonic quantum computing, focusing on scalable and energy-efficient solutions.
- PsiQuantum – Working on building a fault-tolerant quantum computer using photonic qubits, aiming for commercial-scale quantum systems.
- Alibaba Quantum Laboratory – China’s leading quantum research initiative, focusing on superconducting and quantum communication advancements.
