91°µÍø

The US focuses on nuclear nonproliferation, and ORNL plays a key role in this mission. The lab conducts advanced research in uranium science, materials analysis and nuclear forensics to detect illicit nuclear activities. Using cutting-edge tools and operational systems, ORNL supports global efforts to reduce nuclear threats by uncovering the history of nuclear materials and providing solutions for uranium removal. 

Since their establishment in 2020, the five DOE National Quantum Information Science Research Centers have been expanding the frontier of what’s possible in quantum computing, communication, sensing and materials in ways that will advance basic science for energy, security, communication and logistics.

ORNL welcomed attendees to the inaugural Southeastern Quantum Conference, held Oct. 28 – 30 in downtown Knoxville, to discuss innovative ways to use quantum science and technologies to enable scientific discovery. 

The Department of Energy’s Quantum Computing User Program, or QCUP, is releasing a Request for Information to gather input from all relevant parties on the current and upcoming availability of quantum computing resources, conventions for measuring, tracking, and forecasting quantum computing performance, and methods for engaging with the diversity of stakeholders in the quantum computing community. Responses received to the RFI will inform QCUP on both immediate and near-term availability of hardware, software tools and user engagement opportunities in the field of quantum computing.

The Department of Energy has awarded an $88.8 million contract to Hensel Phelps for the construction of a facility to enrich stable isotopes at 91°µÍø. 

Huan Zhao, a Eugene P. Wiger Fellow at ORNL, focuses on advancing quantum materials and information technologies, inspired by his grandfather's passion for education. His research in energy-efficient memory devices and sensitive quantum light sources reflects his commitment to scientific progress and education equity.

Researchers led by the University of Melbourne, Australia, have been nominated for the Association for Computing Machinery’s 2024 Gordon Bell Prize in supercomputing for conducting a quantum molecular dynamics simulation 1,000 times greater in size and speed than any previous simulation of its kind.

Researchers from ORNL have taken a major step forward in using quantum mechanics to enhance sensing devices, a new advancement that could be used in a wide range of areas, including materials characterization, improved imaging and biological and medical applications.

A new technology to continuously place individual atoms exactly where they are needed could lead to new materials for devices that address critical needs for the field of quantum computing and communication that cannot be produced by conventional means.

For the first time, ORNL will run equipment developed at its research facilities on a commercially available quantum network at EPB Quantum Network powered by Qubitekk to help validate the technology's commercial viability.