George Mason Plans $7.7m Quantum System in Virginia

George Mason University plans to invest in a $7.7 million open-architecture quantum computing system with Oxford-based TreQ, its first such system in Virginia and the National Capital Region. The system is planned for delivery and installation in early 2027, with commissioning expected by late summer 2027. Located at a Northern Virginia campus, it will be TreQ’s first U.S. deployment based on its Open Architecture Quantum framework. The project will give George Mason students and faculty access to quantum computing hardware for the first time.

Quantum System Planned For 2027

The system will be designed, deployed, and operated by TreQ. Its open architecture is intended to allow quantum processors, software, networking, and related technologies to be incorporated as they mature, rather than relying on a single integration approach.

Gregory Washington, President at George Mason University, said:

“The opportunity for the Commonwealth of Virginia is significant. Experts project that quantum will create a multi-trillion-dollar economy within the decade, and the states that build workforce and infrastructure now will lead in the future,”

Research And Workforce Access

Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation is providing strategic support for the investment. George Mason’s Quantum Science and Engineering Center has 24 faculty members across seven departments and several colleges, while the university has also committed a $2.4 million catalyst investment, six postdoctoral positions, and three faculty positions for quantum work.

Students can also study through Virginia’s first interdisciplinary master’s degree in quantum science and engineering. The university says the infrastructure and curriculum are intended to build a regional talent pipeline.

Dean Cody Edwards, President Gregory Washington, TreQ CEO Mandy Birch, QSEC Director Patrick Vora, and George Mason Rector Sumeet Shrivastava. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding.

Patrick Vora, Director at the Quantum Science and Engineering Center, said:

“Our partnership with TreQ gives QSEC faculty and students access to true quantum computing hardware for the first time. We can now launch ambitious new research initiatives, build globally unique workforce training programs, and team with our industry colleagues to grow the Virginia quantum ecosystem,”

Open System For Quantum Work

Quantum computing is predicted to generate up to $2.7 trillion in international economic value by 2035. George Mason and TreQ said the new system will support research, curriculum development, and connections with companies and innovators working in quantum technology.

Mandy Birch, CEO and Founder at TreQ, said:

“Open architecture widens the path for innovation, allowing for different quantum processors, software, networking, and other technologies as they mature, rather than a single integration approach,”