Setonix-Q expands hybrid quantum computing access for researchers
Australia’s Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre has unveiled Setonix-Q, a pilot hybrid quantum computing platform that integrates quantum access directly into its flagship Setonix supercomputer. The initiative is billed as a global first, offering researchers streamlined tools to explore quantum-classical workflows.
For eeNews Europe readers, the announcement signals a significant step in hybrid computing. It demonstrates how national computing centers are evolving infrastructure to merge traditional HPC with emerging quantum platforms—an approach that may soon spread internationally.
Making quantum access practical
Through the National Computational Merit Allocation Scheme (NCMAS), supported by the Australian Government’s NCRIS funding, Setonix-Q provides free, peer-reviewed access to academic researchers. The system lowers the traditional barriers of entry by letting scientists develop and test quantum algorithms in a simplified environment, before moving workloads onto real quantum hardware.
Mark Stickells, CEO at Pawsey, emphasized the impact of this integration:
“This new portal gives Australian researchers a chance to combine the advanced silicon-based computing of our CPU- and GPU-based Setonix supercomputer with an array of emerging quantum computing platforms,” Stickells said.
“This is a world-first platform, supporting Australian researchers at the leading edge of advanced computing.”
The pilot is accessible via the Quantum Hub Portal and links directly to Amazon Braket, Amazon Web Services’ quantum computing service. This enables managed access to quantum hardware while maintaining transparent budgeting and workflow control.
Dr. Pascal Elahi, Quantum Supercomputing Researcher Lead at Pawsey, highlighted the potential for innovation:
“Imagine how much faster we could develop this technology and apply it to real-world problems if more researchers had access? The Setonix-Q pilot aims to do just that. Researchers from all over Australia will be able to experiment and trial new algorithms and develop hybrid quantum-classical workflows using a simple interface with clear budgets and controls.”
Dual allocation model
Setonix-Q offers a dual-access structure. Researchers can first evaluate their applications on NVIDIA GraceHopper GH200-powered quantum simulators built on CUDA-Q, and then progress to real quantum processors through Amazon Braket. Storage and software tools are bundled into the model, providing a complete environment for hybrid computing.
Available quantum devices include:
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IonQ Aria & Forte (ion-trap QPUs)
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IQM Garnet & Emerald (superconducting QPUs)
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QuEra Aquila (neutral atom QPU)
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Rigetti Ankaa-3 (superconducting QPU)
By coupling silicon-based and quantum resources, Pawsey expects Setonix-Q to accelerate breakthroughs across chemistry, materials science, optimization, and other domains where quantum methods could make a difference.
Call for projects
Access to Setonix-Q will open through the upcoming NCMAS call in October 2025. Australian researchers are encouraged to submit proposals for early-stage projects and hybrid workflow development.
As Stickells concluded: “This is part of our ongoing commitment under NCRIS to build a capable, connected research ecosystem for Australia.
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