LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC)

The U.S. Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground, Research Triangle Park Division, has released a Special Notice under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) W911NF21S0009 titled LPS Qubit Collaboratory Special Research Topics. This announcement is issued by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM), Army Research Laboratory (ARL), and Army Research Office (ARO). It operates in partnership with the National Security Agency (NSA) under statutory authority that allows for competitive selection of basic research proposals in quantum computing. This Special Notice solicits proposals to advance understanding of superconducting qubits and accelerate the learning of core concepts in quantum information science. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to encourage collaborative research efforts in three defined areas: fundamental studies of superconducting qubits, development of next-generation Josephson junctions, and the creation of training and educational methodologies to support accelerated learning of quantum information concepts. The aim is to address pressing scientific and workforce challenges that underpin progress in quantum technologies while advancing the development of scalable and high-fidelity quantum processors. For the first research area, applicants are invited to propose projects that improve the performance of superconducting qubits by identifying and mitigating noise sources, refining theoretical models, and developing higher fidelity two-qubit gates. In the second area, the Army seeks research on innovative Josephson junction devices that can extend the capabilities of superconducting qubits, with requirements for prototype demonstrations and incorporation into functional qubit designs. The third area focuses on training programs that can expand the national quantum workforce. Proposals may address immersive undergraduate training, re-training programs for technical staff, or certification tracks for quantum technicians, with incubator projects serving as initial testing phases. Applicants must provide a clear statement of need, describe key collaboration partners, and detail the planned approach to sharing methods, data, and outcomes. Proposals should include milestones, metrics for evaluation, and the facilities required for completion. In addition, submissions must describe how results will be assessed and disseminated within the broader Qubit Collaboratory framework. This program requires a two-step submission process. White papers are mandatory and must be submitted by December 15, 2025, via email to the Army Research Office. The subject line should read W911NF21S0009-2 LQC White Paper. Only white papers received by the deadline will be reviewed. Feedback will be provided directly to principal investigators, and selected applicants will be invited to submit full proposals. Full proposals are encouraged by March 3, 2026, to align with fiscal year planning cycles. The government reserves the right to make awards in the form of grants, cooperative agreements, or procurement contracts. All proposals will be evaluated according to the technical and programmatic criteria outlined in the parent BAA W911NF21S0009-2. No funding will be provided for the preparation of white papers or proposals, and all submissions will be treated as sensitive, competitive information. Proposals may be selected in part, in whole, or not at all depending on program needs. For technical questions, applicants may contact Dr. T.R. Govindan at the Army Research Office via email at t.r.govindan.civ@army.mil. Questions regarding administrative or business matters should be directed to usarmy.rtp.devcom-arl.mesg.qcbox@army.mil. Proposers are advised to reference the relevant section of the BAA when submitting inquiries. This Special Notice may be canceled at any time without award, and all general requirements of the parent BAA apply to this opportunity.