SmaraQ Integrates Quantum Optics On A Chip, Paving The Way For Next-Generation Quantum Computers

SmaraQ advances quantum computing toward broader deployment. The project’s new photonic integration technology replaces bulky optical systems made of hundreds of separate components with on-chip UV-light waveguides fabricated through lithography, enabling more scalable ion-trap architectures. In addition, the project aims to establish a sustainable supply chain for these devices, strengthening Germany's position in the global quantum computing arena.

QUDORA Technologies GmbH, AMO GmbH, and Fraunhofer IAF have joined forces in the SmaraQ research project to develop integrated photonic components for ion-trap quantum computers. Funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) through 2028, the project kicked off in September 2025.

Named after the Smaragdkolibri (Blue-tailed Emerald Hummingbird), SmaraQ embodies precision and miniaturization, much like the tiny bird itself, which can perceive ultraviolet light and navigate with laser-focused accuracy at the smallest scales.

Ion-trap quantum computers use naturally identical ions as qubits and excel at qubit control and coherence times, especially when utilizing QUDORA's proprietary NFQC technology for quantum gate operations. But as these systems grow larger, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain precise optical access to each qubit for initialization and laser cooling. Today, this is done using free-space laser beams from large, complex optical systems, which limits both the maximum processor size and the total number of qubits that can be managed. SmaraQ addresses this challenge by developing ultraviolet (UV) waveguides and photonic components based on aluminum nitride (AlN) and aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) that can be integrated directly onto ion-trap chips.

“On-chip integration represents the path forward for ion-trap quantum computing,” explains Dr. Maik Scheller, Head of Photonics at QUDORA. “We are engineering waveguide structures at the nanometer scale—ten thousand times thinner than a human hair—that deliver light with pinpoint precision exactly where our ion qubits demand it.”

The project brings together complementary expertise: QUDORA Technologies serves as the coordinator and system integrator, taking responsibility for advancing the technology towards market readiness beyond the project timeline. Fraunhofer IAF conducts materials research and produces epitaxial growth of thin-film AlN wafers of world-leading quality, while AMO GmbH leverages cutting-edge nanotechnology fabrication capabilities to develop the photonic components on the chips. This collaboration establishes a resilient Germany-based supply chain for these enabling technologies.

The effort aligns with the BMFTR's funding initiative for enabling technologies in quantum research, which aims to strengthen technological sovereignty in critical quantum supply chains while reinforcing Germany's and Europe's leadership in quantum computing and quantum sensing.

About SmaraQ
SmaraQ (Integrated Photonics With Aluminum Nitride and Oxide for Ion-Trap-Based Quantum Computing) is a research project funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) running from 2025 to 2028. The project brings together expertise in materials science, photonics, and quantum computing to develop integrated optical components at nanometer scale. The work demonstrates how enabling technologies can accelerate quantum computing development while strengthening Germany's and Europe's technological sovereignty in critical supply chains.

About QUDORA Technologies GmbH
Founded in 2021, QUDORA Technologies is a leading developer of trapped-ion quantum computing systems based in Germany. The company's proprietary NFQC technology is considered the “gold standard” in ion trap tech enabling powerful quantum computers with 100,000s of qubits and record-high qubit control. The company’s product portfolio comprises on-prem quantum computers which can be integrated in HPC centres (available now) as well as cloud-access to existing hardware generations (coming soon). QUDORA's systems are designed for integration with existing industrial infrastructure, making quantum computing accessible to a broader range of applications and industries.

About AMO GmbH
AMO is a dynamic and application-oriented research institute based in Aachen, Germany, with world-class expertise in graphene electronics, nanophotonics, nanostructuring, sensor technology and perovskite optoelectronics. The institute conducts research to translate the latest advancements of nanotechnology into new applications and to develop innovative solutions to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Since 1993, AMO has been pioneering innovations at the intersection between academic and industrial research, working jointly with national and international partners from industry, academia, SMEs and start-ups.