Memos to the President

Episode 16: Quantum Computing with PJ Maykish and Olivia Armstrong

Episode Summary

Our sixteenth episode features SCSP Senior Advisor PJ Maykish and Associate Director Olivia Armstrong, in conversation with SCSP CEO, Ylli Bajraktari on quantum computing in the age of AI.

Episode Notes

This memo outlines a plan to ensure the United States remains a global leader in quantum computing, through focused technological innovation, strategic organizational changes, and proactive policy measures.

To secure U.S. leadership in quantum computing, the following priorities must be addressed:

• Achieve and Sustain Quantum Leadership: Moving out as a nation involves two organizational moves. First, the United States must prioritize quantum computing research and development through the promotion of the National Quantum Initiative. And second, additional federal funding is needed to ensure first-mover advantage in quantum computing which will directly impact critical sectors and the future of national security and economic growth.
• Accelerate Public-Private Collaboration: A quantum moonshot and greater systematic collaboration to out-learn rival nations is needed to be more competitive. A moonshot naturally brings players together for a specific national security achievement. Existing collaborations like the Quantum Economic Development Consortium and Elevate Quantum (a national tech hub) are a promising start, but increased and systematic intra-governmental collaboration would place the nation on a more competitive footing.
• Protect Quantum Security and Resilience: The United States must take proactive measures to view quantum information science as an “offensive and defensive” domain. One step would be establishing an offensive capabilities unit via the National Quantum Initiative or relevant agency. The focus would be to secure quantum technologies from adversarial threats and ensure the security of critical systems vulnerable to quantum-enabled cyberattacks.

A Bold Vision for Quantum Leadership

By small organization moves, an audacious goal, increased collaboration, and an offensive mindset, the United States can strengthen and sustain its leadership in quantum technologies, ensuring national security and economic prosperity for generations to come.

Read the Full Memo Here: https://scsp.ai/reports/memostothepresident/quantum