Advancing the quantum ecosystem
For more than two decades, SRI has developed precision quantum sensors, communications systems, and the manufacturing foundations to move quantum out of the lab — and into the world.
Solving “unsolvable” math challenges with quantum-inspired computers
SRI researchers hope to compete with quantum computing by applying new algorithms to map large problems onto faster, more energy-efficient photonic circuitry. Our Computer Science Lab and Advanced Technology and Systems Division were awarded a contract under the Quantum-Inspired Classical Computing (QuICC) program with DARPA.
SRI's AMBIIENT platform is advancing atom-based magnetometry for biomagnetic and anomaly-detection applications.
Navigation, medical imaging, and other areas could benefit from powerful new sensors that are based on detecting changes induced upon individual atoms.
SRI's photonic integrated circuits (PICs) are enabling scalable, chip-scale quantum sensor platforms — a key step toward fieldable quantum systems.
Explore the future of quantum technology - from lab to fab
On May 28, 2026, join leading voices across the quantum value chain to explore how to scale quantum technologies into real-world applications, the state of the quantum ecosystem, manufacturing at scale, and emerging applications beyond computing.
We work with government and commercial clients on projects ranging from precision quantum sensors and next-generation PNT and ISR systems to quantum communications — to make the world more secure, connected, and technologically competitive.
We offer a full range of support from R&D and lab demos through to prototypes, early manufacturing, and sustained systems.
Quantum solutions for:
QUANTUM SENSING
State-of-the-art quantum-enabled sensors in small form factors for stand-off sensing, imaging, and PNT applications — including chip-scale cold-atom platforms and atom-based RF electrometry.
PNT & ISR
Next-generation position, navigation, and timing systems leveraging quantum inertial sensors and matter-wave interferometry for operation in GPS-denied environments.
QUANTUM NETWORKING
Prototypes, early manufacturing, and scalable systems in advanced imaging, integrated network components, entangled-photon generation, and new concepts of operation for distributed, networked quantum sensors, systems, microcircuit emulation, and aircraft missions.
QED-C & INDUSTRY
SRI manages the NIST-chartered Quantum Economic Development Consortium — driving standards, workforce development, and supply-chain growth across the U.S. quantum industry.
MANUFACTURING
SRI published the first-of-its-kind Quantum Technology Manufacturing Roadmap (QTMR), identifying supply-chain gaps and barriers to quantum's transition from lab to fab.
PHOTONICS & PICS
Photonic integrated circuit development, chip-to-vacuum bonding, and photonic foundry capabilities supporting scalable quantum hardware manufacturing.
CHALLENGE
Existing magnetic sensors lack the sensitivity and miniaturization needed for next-generation biomagnetic detection, proximity sensing, and anomaly detection in real-world environments.
SOLUTION
SRI researchers developed an atom-based magnetometry platform — AMBIIENT — that delivers ultra-high sensitivity in a compact footprint, using Rydberg-atom physics and novel vacuum integration techniques.
IMPACT
AMBIIENT enables applications across biomedical diagnostics, defense anomaly detection, and navigation in GPS-denied environments — with a clear path to field deployment.
SRI demonstrates magnetic sensor detecting biomagnetic signals, a milestone for medical imaging and defense sensing in a chip-scale form factor.
SRI selected for DARPA's Quantum Apertures Program to advance the next-generation aperture systems using quantum sensing technologies for the Department of Defense.
SRI's HAPPI program is building the photonic circuits of the future, helping to advance heterogeneous photonic integration for scalable quantum sensing and communications.
Under an IARPA contract, SRI is developing textiles that record audio by turning piezoelectric materials and lithium-ion batteries into thread, innovators will weave fabrics that record sound.
Transforming matter: SRI researchers create perfect crystals from amorphous blobs, aiming to create a new electronic device class made of two or more semiconductors.
Developing automated tools that aid analysts as they tackle the rise of automated multimodal media manipulation.
QED-C deputy director Jonathan Felbinger: Helping prepare the world for a quantum future
SRI publishes first-of-its-kind Quantum Technology Manufacturing Roadmap, which maps the supply chain gaps and manufacturing barriers on the path from lab to large-scale quantum production.
The SRI-managed QED-C convened quantum innovators and members of Congress to shape the future of U.S. quantum technology policy.
SRI's ultra-compact and wafer-thin optical arrays aim to revolutionize satellite communication and democratize quantum and optical communication between satellite constellations.
The SRI-managed QED-C reports 2024 quantum computing and sensing revenue approaching $1.5B, with ~25% annual growth projected.
Solving complex challenges with innovative solutions: meet the researchers driving SRI's quantum and photonics programs — and why now is one of the most exciting times to work in the field.
Sterling McBride, a quantum pioneer with over three decades at SRI — is hadvancing chip-scale platforms for sensing and communications.
A QED-C® study explores the diverse range of potential applications and early standardization efforts within the industry.
SRI's quantum technologies are helping define the future of sensing, security, and communications
We have the expertise, technology, and the pipeline to bring innovation into the market. And we're just getting started.
