June 25, 2025 -- Quantum computing holds the promise to revolutionize how we solve complex problems, but today’s devices still face steep challenges. At the heart of the issue lies reliability: current quantum bits—or qubits—are extremely sensitive to environmental noise and prone to errors.

Andras Gyenis is taking a bold step to change that. Gyenis, an assistant professor in CU Boulder’s Department of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering, has received a prestigious five-year, $550,000 National Science Foundation CAREER award to design and build more robust superconducting qubits that could push the boundaries of quantum hardware.

Gyenis’ research focuses on superconducting Fourier qubits, a new type of quantum bit engineered to resist information loss by redundantly encoding quantum information.

Unlike conventional superconducting qubits—used by major companies like Google, IBM and Amazon—which are often vulnerable to noise, Fourier qubits are designed to suppress quantum errors at the hardware level.

“We’re using a strategy inspired by classical computing, where bits are protected from errors through smart design,” Gyenis said. “By protecting the qubit itself, we can reduce the amount of correction needed later and create more scalable systems.”

These Fourier quantum states allow qubits to store their 0 and 1 states in physically separate locations, making it less likely for environmental disturbances to accidentally flip their values. It’s an approach that combines fundamental physics with practical engineering and it may pave the way for longer-lasting, more reliable quantum processors.

Building better qubits from the ground up

The project will proceed through a combination of design, simulation, fabrication and testing. Gyenis and his team will explore novel circuit designs using numerical tools, fabricate quantum chips at CU Boulder’s NSF-supported National Quantum Nanofab  facility and perform measurements at ultra-low temperatures—just a fraction above absolute zero.

“We’ll likely go through many iterations,” Gyenis said. “We’re taking a co-design approach: each round of measurements feeds back into the design to improve performance step by step.”

The team will also investigate active Fourier qubits—circuits whose error protection comes from oscillating external parameters. The long-term goal is to demonstrate scalable quantum hardware with built-in robustness, forming a foundation for future superconducting quantum processors.

Training the next generation of quantum engineers

In addition to cutting-edge research, Gyenis’ award supports a comprehensive education and outreach program aimed at expanding quantum engineering at CU Boulder. That includes developing new classes and connecting students to hands-on projects in quantum circuit design and fabrication.

“Quantum education has historically focused on physics students, but today’s challenges require an engineering mindset too,” Gyenis said. “We need to train students not just in quantum theory, but in the real-world design of quantum systems.”

His curriculum will emphasize engineering principles like device layout, signal control, nanofabrication and systems integration. Students will also explore classical analogs of Fourier qubits—mechanical systems that mimic quantum behavior—to build intuition and bridge gaps between disciplines.

A future powered by quantum solutions

While still an emerging field, quantum computing has potential applications that span far beyond science labs. With more robust hardware, these systems could one day help researchers simulate complex molecules for drug development, improve climate models, enable artificial photosynthesis and solve key challenges in cybersecurity and logistics.

“The work we’re doing could benefit fields as varied as healthcare, energy and national security,” Gyenis said. “But just as important, it will help grow a quantum-ready workforce.”

“I’m excited to pursue research that pushes the frontier of quantum hardware, while helping to build a strong quantum engineering program,” he said. “This award allows us to do both—and to do it in a way that’s accessible for the next generation of engineers.”