IonQ and Kipu Quantum Achieve Breakthroughs in Protein Folding via Quantum Computing

In a groundbreaking achievement, IonQ, a leading commercial quantum computing company, and Kipu Quantum, a pioneer in application-specific quantum algorithms, have successfully solved the most complex protein folding problem ever executed on a quantum computer. This milestone was announced on June 19, 2025, during a joint press release from the companies' headquarters in Karlsruhe, Germany, and College Park, Maryland.

The collaboration marks a significant advancement in the field of quantum computing, particularly in its application to biological sciences and drug discovery. According to Prof. Enrique Solano, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Kipu Quantum, ‘The successful solution of this intricate protein folding problem showcases the synergy between Kipu’s innovative algorithmic framework and IonQ’s state-of-the-art hardware.’ This achievement not only sets a record for the size and complexity of the protein folding problem solved but also positions quantum computing as a viable tool for tackling significant challenges in drug development and biology.

The specific problem addressed involved a 3D model of a protein comprising 12 amino acids, which is considered an industry record for quantum computing applications. Utilizing Kipu Quantum’s flagship BF-DCQO (Bias-Field Digitized Counterdiabatic Quantum Optimization) algorithm, the teams executed the computations on IonQ’s Forte generation systems. The results included optimal solutions for all instances of all-to-all connected spin-glass problems (QUBO) and MAX-4-SAT problems (HUBO) using up to 36 qubits, demonstrating unprecedented capabilities in dense quantum computations.

The implications of this collaboration extend beyond mere performance records. With the ability to solve complex problems efficiently, quantum computing is on the brink of transforming industries such as pharmaceuticals, logistics, and material design. Ariel Braunstein, Senior Vice President of Product at IonQ, emphasized, ‘This collaboration demonstrates the value of every part of IonQ’s quantum computing stack—from the quality of our qubits to how error mitigation techniques are applied.’

Historically, protein folding has posed a significant challenge for computational methods due to the vast number of possible configurations molecules can adopt. Traditional approaches often fall short in accurately predicting the folded structure of proteins, which is critical for understanding biological functions and developing new drugs. Quantum computing, with its ability to process complex calculations simultaneously, offers a promising alternative.

Looking ahead, both IonQ and Kipu Quantum plan to extend their collaboration with early access to IonQ’s upcoming 64-qubit and 256-qubit chips. This development is expected to unlock further potential in addressing even larger industrial challenges.

Kipu Quantum, founded in 2021, has quickly established itself in the quantum computing landscape with a focus on delivering industry-relevant solutions. Their PLANQK platform has already provided access to quantum solutions for over 220 organizations. The company's mission continues to revolve around integrating artificial intelligence with quantum computing, thus pioneering a new field known as Agentic Quantum Computing.

IonQ, on the other hand, aims to advance its technological roadmap toward building quantum computers with 2 million physical qubits by 2030. The recognition of IonQ’s rapid growth and technological innovation has been highlighted in various accolades, including being listed in Newsweek’s 2025 Excellence Index 1000 and Forbes' 2025 Most Successful Mid-Cap Companies.

In conclusion, the collaboration between IonQ and Kipu Quantum not only highlights the rapid advancements in quantum computing but also opens new avenues for research and application in biology and drug discovery. As both companies explore additional use cases capable of delivering quantum advantage in the near term, the future of quantum computing in real-world applications looks promising.