Equal1 opens Dutch lab, takes on TNO researchers – update

Quantum computer startup Equal1 in Ireland and the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) are to build quantum system on chip devices using spin qubits.

The strategic collaboration will boost the fabrication of quantum system-on-chip (QSoC) processors using the expertise and facilities of TNO for nanofabrication and advanced materials alongside a Equal1’s new centre of excellence and research facility in Delft.

“Our vision is to scale millions of high-performance qubits onto a single chip, integrating all electronics and quantum systems into our QSoC, leveraging our hybrid UnityQ architecture, and enabling compact, on-premise quantum computing. This partnership represents a significant step forward in Equal1’s roadmap toward creating the world’s most scalable quantum computers,” said Jason Lynch, CEO of Equal1, which last month signed a deal with Nvidia.

The move will also see three TNO researchers join Equal1.

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Rogier Verberk, Director of Semicon & Quantum at TNO said: “We are immensely proud to witness the evolution of what began as a simple project into a strategic partnership. This milestone reflects the dedication and visionary efforts of the teams at Equal1 and TNO, as we pioneer the future of quantum computing together.”

The Equal1 lab is based in the House of Quantum, a key hub for quantum technology research that provides direct access to a robust network of quantum research and industry expertise, as well as the latest equipment. 

“We are delighted and proud to welcome Equal1 to our ecosystem in Delft,” said Christiaan van Oord, Director House of Quantum. “By establishing itself here, Equal1 enriches our community not only with their cutting-edge expertise but also with a team of renowned experts. We are eager to support Equal1’s continuous development and look forward to witnessing the transformative contributions they will make.”

Nodar Samkharadze will join Equal1 as Chief Quantum Architect. At TNO, he led efforts to design, manufacture and calibrate the spin qubit quantum processors in Quantum Inspire, the first multi-technology platform quantum computer demonstrator in the cloud. Previously, he held the position of Post-Doctoral Researcher at QuTech, where he worked on extending the connectivity of spin qubits through microwave cavities.

Amir Sammak is Vice-President of Quantum Material having worked on the design, development and fabrication of Si/SiGe and Ge/SiGe heterostructures. These structures were explored as potential platforms for the fabrication of CMOS-compatible silicon and germanium (SiGe) spin-qubit devices. Additionally, he was a member of the QuTech management team, as the Engineering Lead of the Quantum Computing Division.

Sergey Amitonov is Director of Quantum Device Integration having led advanced research in the nano-fabrication of quantum devices. He successfully oversaw the fabrication of the largest spin-based quantum processor in silicon on a silicon-germanium heterostructure (SiGe). Before his tenure at TNO, he worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher at QuTech and in the Nano-Electronics Group at the University of Twente.

“A number of silicon quantum computing startups have emerged from academic and research institutions, many focusing primarily on scaling qubits. While qubit development is foundational, the interplay between qubits and system architecture is critical for achieving commercial viability,” said Samkharadze.

“What sets Equal1 apart—and what drew us to join the team—is their holistic approach. We’re not just advancing qubit technology; we’re developing the entire system necessary to support commercial scalable quantum computing. This integration of qubits, control chip, cryo-electronics, software, and a cryo-mechanical system is designed to function seamlessly.”