Following decades of scientific advances in quantum computing, the industry’s focus is shifting towards a new challenge: scalability—how to transform experimental devices into systems capable of operating in unison. This challenge places interconnection, integration and systems architecture at the heart of technological development.
It is against this backdrop that Nu Quantum emerges, a company founded in Cambridge (UK) with the aim of tackling one of the sector’s main bottlenecks: the interconnection of quantum processors. Its approach focuses on developing infrastructure that enables the construction of distributed quantum systems via photonic networks, laying the foundations for a new generation of scalable architectures.
The company, a spin-out from the prestigious Cavendish Department of Physics at the University of Cambridge, was founded in 2018 by Carmen Palacios Berraquero, a quantum physicist whose career combines a solid scientific background with a clear focus on the commercialisation of emerging technologies. Under her leadership, Nu Quantum has positioned itself in a key segment of the value chain: the development of quantum interconnect solutions, a critical element in unlocking the potential of quantum computing.
The company’s technological offering integrates advanced photonic interfaces, routing systems and fault-tolerant architectures, enabling the interconnection of different quantum nodes. This approach facilitates distributed systems in which multiple processors can operate in concert, thereby overcoming the physical limitations of current systems and bringing quantum computing closer to infrastructure models comparable to those seen in the evolution of high-performance computing.
The establishment of this facility in Spain is part of a long-term strategic vision: to contribute to the development of industrial capabilities in two key areas for the future of distributed quantum computing. On the one hand, the development of integrated photonics, which is essential for the manufacture of scalable, robust and reproducible interconnection systems. On the other hand, advances in algorithms and the control of distributed systems, which are necessary to coordinate and operate networks of quantum processors efficiently.
Spain has distinct strengths in both areas. In integrated photonics, it boasts leading research centres and industrial capabilities, as well as a well-established foundation in microelectronics and communications technologies. These capabilities provide a solid starting point for progress towards the design, integration and future production of photonic components for use in quantum systems.
At the same time, the development of control algorithms and architectures for distributed quantum computing is opening up a new area of specialisation. It is not merely a matter of running quantum algorithms, but of designing approaches that take into account the distributed nature of the systems: resource management, synchronisation between nodes, optimisation of quantum and classical communications, and adaptation to hybrid architectures. This field represents an opportunity to link existing capabilities in software, telecommunications and information theory with the emerging field of quantum computing.
One of the main challenges facing the Spanish ecosystem is the fragmentation of capabilities, which are spread across different regions with complementary strengths. Compared to more concentrated models, Spain has significant potential if it can bring these capabilities together in a coordinated manner. Building a cohesive ecosystem will enable progress from scientific excellence towards the creation of industry.
Nu Quantum’s experience in Cambridge, one of the world’s leading hubs for quantum technologies, reinforces this approach. The combination of talent, investment and public-private collaboration has been key to establishing environments where research translates into industrial innovation. Adapting these models to the Spanish context requires precisely identifying and linking existing capabilities, thereby encouraging the creation of joint projects.
In an international context characterised by growing technological competition, quantum technologies are establishing themselves as a strategic field. Europe has begun to strengthen its commitment to technological sovereignty in key sectors, where quantum computing will play a significant role in the medium and long term. In this scenario, Spain has the opportunity to position itself in specific high value-added segments, particularly those related to integrated photonics, systems engineering and distributed architectures. Seizing this opportunity will require not only investment, but also a shared vision and effective coordination between the various stakeholders in the ecosystem located across different regions.
Participation in platforms such as AESEMI is in line with this objective, facilitating dialogue between businesses, research centres and public authorities. The development of a quantum industry will not be the result of isolated initiatives, but rather of the ability to create collaborative environments that accelerate knowledge transfer and the development of technological solutions.
The development of quantum computing will ultimately depend on the ability to build comprehensive infrastructures in which hardware, software and systems operate in an integrated manner. In this process, initiatives such as Nu Quantum in Spain highlight the importance of new industrial ventures in driving the ecosystem forward, helping to position the country at the forefront of one of the most significant technological transformations in history.
