The Quantum Computing User Forum (QCUF) serves as a primary annual gathering for researchers, software developers, and technology vendors working at the intersection of quantum tech and high-performance computing. Hosted by the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility (OLCF) at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), this in-person event connects users of the Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP) to drive advancements in quantum software, device applications, and simulations.
The Mission of the Quantum Computing User Program and Forum
As quantum technology shifts from theoretical physics into practical application, developers need unified spaces to share methodologies. The Quantum Computing User Forum bridges this gap by gathering current users, prospective users, and external collaborators. Organizers such as ORNL research scientist Claire Marvinney and Josh Cunningham, chief operating officer of the Department of Energy’s Quantum Science Center, emphasize that the forum targets the practical realities of building software for quantum devices.
Attendees tackle core challenges, including how to efficiently deploy quantum linear solvers for computational fluid dynamics, structure spatial-temporal quantum sensing architectures, and build enterprise-grade hybrid systems. The event explicitly supports poster submissions and open dialogues regarding hardware-software co-design.
Key Focus Areas: Applications, Software, and Hybrid Workflows
Discussions at the forum consistently center on translating theoretical quantum algorithms into functional code that can run on real hardware and simulators. Sessions are structured to address multiple layers of the growing quantum ecosystem:
- Cloud and Hardware Access: Exploring commercial quantum cloud platforms and systems, ranging from initial exploratory scripts to complex hybrid applications.
- Virtual QPUs: Utilizing virtual quantum processing units to bridge the performance gap between classical simulation environments and physical hardware execution.
- Supercharging HPC: Developing enterprise-grade strategies to merge traditional supercomputing power with emerging quantum processors.
Ecosystem Collaboration and Industry Engagement
The event acts as a meeting ground for a diverse array of organizations, including national laboratories like Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and Oak Ridge, alongside commercial quantum hardware and software providers such as IonQ, Quantum Brilliance, and IQM. By drawing participants from institutions like NERSC alongside the broader OLCF user base, the forum establishes a standardized baseline for best practices in quantum resource allocation and code deployment.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Location | Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) / OLCF |
| Target Audience | QCUP users, NERSC users, developers, vendors, and researchers |
| Primary Topics | Quantum applications, software practices, simulations, and hybrid HPC workflows |
| Event Format | In-person annual gathering featuring keynotes, working lunches, and workshops |
Ultimately, the Quantum Computing User Forum highlights ORNL’s ongoing leadership in advancing computing architectures. By aligning the goals of national laboratories with commercial vendors, the forum ensures that developers have direct access to the tools, workflows, and community networks required to accelerate real-world quantum computing deployment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Quantum Computing User Forum?
The Quantum Computing User Forum (QCUF) is an annual event hosted by the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility (OLCF) at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. It brings together users of the Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP), software developers, and technology vendors to discuss applications, software development, and simulations for quantum devices.
Who is eligible to attend the Quantum Computing User Forum?
The forum is open to current and prospective QCUP users, NERSC users, technology vendors, and other interested parties from across the global quantum computing ecosystem. It serves as a collaborative environment for researchers and industry collaborators working on quantum-HPC integration.
Where and when is the Quantum Computing User Forum held?
The event is held annually as an in-person gathering at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. Future scheduling includes dates such as August 9–13, 2027, following previous sessions held in July.
References & Sources
- OLCF 2026 Quantum Computing User Forum | NERSC
- 2025 Quantum Computing User Forum – Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility
- 2026 Quantum Computing User Forum – Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility
- Quantum Computing User Forum Highlights Advances in Quantum Research – Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility
- 2027 Quantum Computing User Forum
Editorial Note: This article was researched via verified live web sources and published on 2026-11-10. Questions or feedback? Contact the editorial staff at TrendsInNews.
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