FAU Becomes First Florida University to Host Dedicated Quantum Computer

The new Advantage2 annealing quantum computer from D-Wave will create a hub for quantum computing education and research at FAU.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 10:15am

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Florida Atlantic University has signed an agreement with D-Wave Quantum Inc. to install an Advantage2 annealing quantum computer on its Boca Raton campus, making it the first university in Florida to publicly host a large, dedicated quantum computer. The collaboration aims to accelerate applied innovation and provide students and researchers with direct access to cutting-edge quantum computing technology.

Why it matters

By bringing this advanced quantum hardware on-site, FAU hopes to cement Florida's status as a leader in emerging technology, attract startups and private investment, and bridge the gap between theoretical physics and practical applications in critical sectors like public works, transportation, and emergency management.

The details

The Advantage2 system marks the beginning of a robust partnership between FAU and D-Wave, a company known for providing both annealing and gate-model quantum computing systems. The collaboration includes academic research, workforce development, and training initiatives, as well as joint hackathons and ideation workshops to explore real-world applications of quantum computing.

  • The Advantage2 quantum computer is scheduled for deployment at FAU later this year.

The players

Florida Atlantic University

A public research university located in Boca Raton, Florida, and the first university in the state to publicly host a large, dedicated quantum computer on its campus.

D-Wave Quantum Inc.

A Canadian quantum computing company that will be providing the Advantage2 annealing quantum computer to be installed at FAU.

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What’s next

FAU and D-Wave plan to host joint hackathons and ideation workshops to explore practical applications of quantum computing in critical sectors such as public works, transportation, supply chain logistics, and emergency management.

The takeaway

FAU's partnership with D-Wave to host a dedicated quantum computer on campus positions the university and the state of Florida as leaders in the emerging field of quantum computing, with the potential to drive innovation, attract investment, and prepare the next generation of quantum computing experts.