The day began at CIC nanoGUNE, a center specializing in nanoscience and nanotechnology. Divided into two groups, participants toured the cleanroom and the microscopy platform, learning about the equipment and techniques used to investigate material properties at the nanoscale.
Next, they visited the Quantum Tower, inaugurated in February 2026. Fernando González-Zalba, an Ikerbasque researcher, explained advancements in quantum hardware and the cooling systems required to reach near-absolute zero temperatures. He also presented the development of silicon-based quantum chips, an area where nanoGUNE collaborates with the British company Quantum Motion.
The second stop was at the new Ikerbasque building, where attendees were introduced to the IBM Quantum System Two, inaugurated in October 2025, the first system of its kind installed in Europe. During the visit, Egoi explained the operation of this infrastructure, which features an IBM Quantum Heron processor with 156 qubits. Participants explored the differences between conventional and quantum computing, as well as the complex cooling and control systems necessary for this technology.
Potential applications in areas such as new materials and drug research, simulation, and optimization were also discussed, along with the ongoing development challenges.
The visit provided insight into two complementary approaches to quantum technology: the research and development of new devices at nanoGUNE and their application in advanced computing at IBM. The event highlighted the potential of this technology and the positioning of Donostia and Gipuzkoa as leaders in quantum research.
From Ingeniariak, we thank the teams at nanoGUNE and Ikerbasque for their welcome and explanations, as well as the 32 College members for their participation and interest.
