The Maryland Institute for Quantum Applications (MIQA) at the University of Maryland’s Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS) has announced a significant research project to strengthen quantum systems, which is expected to completely transform the security landscape of next-generation computing. SEQCURE (Securing Experimental Quantum Computing Usage in Research Environments) is a program that was introduced on 2026. It is a strategic partnership with industry leaders, including IonQ, to apply Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) principles to the emerging field of quantum technology.
SEQCURE, which is supported by the Concepts, Development, and Management Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, is intended to address the particular vulnerabilities of quantum settings. A strong, resilient security framework has become essential for national security as quantum computing moves from experimental laboratory settings into crucial operational use.
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A Shift in Paradigm: From Perimeters to Continuous Verification
The shift from conventional, “static perimeter” security models to the more dynamic Zero Trust Architecture forms the foundation of the SEQCURE program. Conventional security frequently uses a “castle-and-moat” strategy in which users are trusted once they are within the network. On the other hand, ZTA is based on the “never trust, always verify” philosophy and is governed by the NIST SP 800-207 framework.
As part of this new partnership, ARLIS and IonQ are attempting to advance quantum security toward a paradigm that necessitates ongoing verification of access to all crucial system resources. This comprehensive approach covers six important areas that govern the design and operation of advanced quantum systems cloud, hardware, software, facility, data, and users . The alliance intends to guarantee that each of the quantum platform’s pillars computing, networking, sensing, and security is intrinsically verifiable and reliable by incorporating these NIST-defined standards.
Paul Lopata, Chief Quantum Scientist and Acting Director of MIQA at ARLIS, stated that “quantum computing holds tremendous promise for science and national security, but we must ensure these systems are resilient from the start.” Lopata underlined that ARLIS is assisting in “charting a secure path forward” that harmonizes cutting-edge technologies with strict government regulations by working closely with industry.
IonQ’s Role in Defining the Quantum Future
One of the main partners in this effort is IonQ, which has its headquarters in College Park and is regarded as a global leader in the quantum business. The partnership helps ARLIS define the ZTA framework by utilizing IonQ’s experience in creating high-performance quantum systems. IonQ is currently building its newest generation of computers, the IonQ Tempo, and recently set a world record for quantum performance in 2025 with 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity.
As quantum systems become the “bedrock of national infrastructure,” Niccolo de Masi, Chairman and CEO of IonQ, called the transition to Zero Trust a “strategic imperative.” According to De Masi, the research is a significant step toward developing the safe foundation needed for both large-scale national deployments and the future of the quantum internet.
The collaboration expands upon IonQ’s vast federal work portfolio, which includes agreements with the U.S. Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) and DARPA. By aiding ARLIS in creating these new standards, IonQ is working to ensure that quantum solutions can be deployed safely across numerous federal departments, promoting a more faster adoption of these technologies by the government .
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The Role of MIQA and ARLIS
The goal set forth by MIQA@ARLIS is carried out by the SEQCURE initiative. MIQA, a center for the advancement of quantum information science with an emphasis on intelligence and national security applications, was established in April 2025 and is situated in the Discovery District of the University of Maryland.
ARLIS is committed to enhancing U.S. national security decision-making through high-value research and cutting-edge infrastructure as a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) authorized by the Department of Defense. The lab tackles problems in areas including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and human-machine collaboration by fusing in-depth scientific knowledge with practical understanding.
ARLIS researchers will continue their security evaluations in collaboration with cloud and quantum hardware providers until 2025 and 2026. These initiatives will produce thorough reports and suggestions meant to direct business and government stakeholders in the secure conversion of quantum research into practical applications.
Broader Implications for Industry and Science
Although national security is SEQCURE’s primary focus, this study has far-reaching commercial consequences. Major partners like Amazon Web Services, AstraZeneca, and NVIDIA are already using quantum computing to speed up innovation in financial modeling, drug development, materials science, and logistics.
ARLIS and IonQ are setting the foundation for a quantum ecosystem that both industry and government can use with confidence by building a safe, verifiable framework now. Paul Lopata expressed optimism that the outcomes of this work will eventually be incorporated into commercial systems, enabling all users to take advantage of these next-generation devices’ improved security and performance.
The SEQCURE program guarantees that the United States is leading not only in performance but also in the security and integrity of the systems that will define the twenty-first century as the global competition for quantum supremacy heats up. MIQA@ARLIS is expediting the conversion of quantum research into practical, mission-critical solutions by bringing together the brightest minds from academia, business, and government.
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