LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC)

Quick Summary

The U.S. Army Research Office (ARO), in partnership with NSA’s Laboratory for Physical Science (LPS), is soliciting research proposals for the LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC). This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) seeks to advance fundamental quantum information science and technology, foster collaborations, and build a quantum workforce. Proposals are sought for Incubator, Collaboratory, and QuaCR Fellowship opportunities. The BAA is continuously open, with a final response date of April 30, 2027.

Purpose & Scope

The LQC aims to pursue disruptive fundamental research in qubit development for quantum computing and sensing, grow deep collaborative partnerships, and build a quantum workforce. It functions as a "center without walls" for researchers to collaborate, access instrumentation, and share resources. This BAA provides a mechanism for collaborative research between LPS and academia, industry, FFRDCs, and Government Laboratories.

Research Categories & Thrusts

Three categories of proposals are sought:

• Incubator: For single investigators or small groups with unique skillsets to develop early-stage concepts, potentially leveraging LPS infrastructure.
• Collaboratory: For significant collaborations (academia, industry, FFRDCs, Government Labs) to pursue long-term, disruptive research projects (1-3 years).
• QuaCR Fellowships: To support talented U.S. citizen graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in quantum information processing and sensing, including a required period at LPS.

Key research thrusts include:

• Spin qubits, epitaxy for qubit development, voltage controllable superconducting qubits, and qubits operating at higher temperatures (350 mK to 2 K).
• Beyond Moore/Shor era quantum computing systems and advanced materials for quantum computing.
• Accelerated learning and workforce development in Quantum Information Science & Technology (QIST).
• Special Notice Topics (White Papers due Dec 15, 2025): Fundamental studies of superconducting qubits, next-generation Josephson Junctions, and accelerated learning of quantum information concepts through hands-on experiences.

Contract Details

Awards may be made as procurement contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements. Cooperative agreements are likely due to the collaborative nature. Funding for subsequent years is contingent on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. Incubator proposals are typically 1-3 years, not exceeding $500K/year. Collaboratory proposals are 2-3 years, requesting less than $800K/year.

Eligibility & Submission

Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit concerns (large and small businesses). Proposals are encouraged from HBCUs and MIs. FFRDCs are not eligible for direct awards but can team with eligible offerors. QuaCR Fellowship applicants must be U.S. citizens working with existing ARO/LPS-funded investigators.

White Papers are required for Incubator and Collaboratory proposals (Stage 1). Full proposals are submitted after Stage 1 review. Evaluation criteria include scientific/technical merit, potential contribution to quantum computing, and qualifications of personnel. Cost sharing is not required.

Key Dates & Contacts

• Overall BAA Response Date: April 30, 2027
• Special Notice White Papers Due: December 15, 2025
• Special Notice Proposals Recommended By: March 3, 2026
• Primary Contact: QC Mailbox (usarmy.rtp.rdecom-aro.mesg.qcbox@army.mil)
• Technical Contact: Dr. T.R. Govindan (t.r.govindan.civ@army.mil)