IBM and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have announced the launch of the MIT-IBM Computing Research Lab. Evolving from the MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab, founded in 2017, the new structure expands artificial intelligence research to include quantum computing and algorithm development, with the goal of advancing next-generation computational approaches for scientific and industrial applications.
Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing Under One Roof
The new lab will focus on three core areas: artificial intelligence, algorithms and quantum computing. The collaboration will explore hybrid computing models that combine quantum hardware with classical systems and AI-driven methods.
As part of its research agenda, the lab will examine small language model architectures, emerging AI computing paradigms and enterprise AI systems designed for real-world applications. It is expected to play a significant role in developing scalable, reliable and industry-focused AI solutions.
Quantum Algorithms for Materials Science, Chemistry and Biology
The MIT-IBM Computing Research Lab will also conduct research into quantum algorithms aimed at solving complex problems in materials science, chemistry and biology.
Additional research areas will include the foundations of machine learning, optimization, Hamiltonian simulations and partial differential equations for modeling dynamic systems.
“Accelerating the Future of Computing”
Jay Gambetta, Director of IBM Research and IBM Chair of the lab, said the new center aims to become one of the world’s leading academic and industrial hubs accelerating the future of computing.
MIT Provost Anantha Chandrakasan noted that the collaboration has produced significant research outcomes over the past decade, adding that the partners have set a high bar for the work they will carry out together over the next 10 years.
Joint Governance Model
The laboratory will operate under a joint governance model. Aude Oliva from MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory and David Cox, Vice President of AI Models at IBM Research, will serve in leadership roles for the new structure.
Joint leaders from both MIT and IBM have also been appointed for each focus area.
Strong Research Ecosystem Since 2017
Since 2017, the collaboration between MIT and IBM has built a strong research ecosystem. During the previous lab period, more than 210 research projects were funded, with the participation of over 150 MIT faculty members and more than 200 IBM researchers.
The collaboration has resulted in more than 1,500 peer-reviewed papers and supported over 500 students and postdoctoral researchers.
The new lab is expected to accelerate scientific discovery at the intersection of artificial intelligence and quantum computing while creating new opportunities for industrial applications.
Source
MIT News, “The MIT-IBM Computing Research Lab launches to shape the future of AI and quantum computing,” published April 29, 2026.
