Chula Launches Thailand’s First Quantum Computer and Quantum Technology Master’s Program

Chulalongkorn University has announced a major milestone in Thailand’s quantum technology development under the theme “First-in-Nation Quantum Engine and Program: Beyond AI into the Quantum Future.” The initiative introduces Thailand’s first quantum computer and quantum technology degree program, representing a significant step beyond the limits of artificial intelligence toward the quantum era. 

The university installed Southeast Asia’s first trapped-ion quantum computer while also launching a Master of Science in Quantum Technology program to develop the skilled workforce needed for Thailand’s emerging quantum technology sector. 

The launch event was held on July 14, 2026, at Maha Chulalongkorn Building, Room 111. The event was opened by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University. Professor Dr. Pranut Potiyaraj, Dean of the Faculty of Science, discussed Thailand’s quantum ecosystem; Professor Jin-Shi Xu of the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) spoke about quantum computing and research collaboration with Chulalongkorn; and Associate Professor Dr. Thiti Bovornratanaraks, Dean of the School of Integrated Innovation, introduced the new master’s program in Quantum Technology. 

During the “Chula Quantum Leap” launch ceremony, Chulalongkorn University announced its collaboration with the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) and Hefei Unitary Quantum Technology Co., Ltd. to install an Ion-Trap Quantum Computer, which will serve as Thailand’s foundational infrastructure for quantum education, research, and technological development. 

Dr. Ran He from Hefei Unitary Quantum Technology introduced the principles, capabilities, and applications of quantum computing before the official announcement of the installation. 

The quantum computer will provide a platform for: 

The installation represents not only a significant enhancement of Thailand’s scientific and technological infrastructure but also demonstrates Chulalongkorn University’s commitment to establishing Thailand as a leading quantum technology hub in Southeast Asia. 

The university also introduced its Master of Science in Quantum Technology, administered by the School of Integrated Innovation. 

The interdisciplinary program combines expertise from: 

The curriculum aims to prepare graduates capable of applying quantum technologies across industries, including finance, communications, national security, manufacturing, and the digital economy. 

The program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds. All students complete a common core curriculum before specializing according to their interests. They also participate in interdisciplinary research projects with researchers, experts, and industry partners, connecting academic learning with practical innovation and real-world problem-solving. 

The event concluded with a panel discussion titled “Educating the Workforce for Quantum Futures of Thailand.” Experts from universities, research institutions, and industry discussed: 

Panelists included representatives from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Science and Faculty of Engineering, USTC, Hefei Unitary Quantum Technology, Charoen Pokphand Group, True Corporation, All Now Group, IBM Thailand, and SCBX. 

The discussion emphasized that building a sustainable quantum ecosystem requires coordinated investment in infrastructure, research, education, and industrial partnerships. Success will depend on developing talent across multiple disciplines—including physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science, and business—to translate laboratory research into economic and societal applications. 

The installation of Thailand’s first Ion-Trap Quantum Computer and the launch of the master’s program represent a major strategic initiative by Chulalongkorn University to integrate education, research, innovation, and international collaboration. 

The initiative aims to: 

Leadership Perspectives 

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, described the announcement as a historic moment for both the university and Thailand’s scientific community. He stressed that universities today must go beyond teaching by transforming knowledge, technology, and innovation into benefits for society and the nation’s competitiveness. 

As the world changes rapidly, he noted, quantum technology represents the next frontier beyond today’s AI capabilities and will create new opportunities across science, industry, and the economy. 

He credited the achievement to close collaboration among the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Engineering, School of Integrated Innovation, USTC, Hefei Unitary Quantum Technology, and industry partners. Together, they are building both quantum infrastructure and educational programs that will produce the next generation of researchers and innovators. 

Associate Professor Dr. Thiti Bovornratanarak, Dean of the School of Integrated Innovation, highlighted that while acquiring advanced quantum computers is important, the long-term success of Thailand’s quantum ecosystem depends on developing people who can effectively use, improve, and expand the technology. 

The master’s program, therefore, combines education in both quantum computing and artificial intelligence, emphasizing theoretical knowledge alongside practical applications in areas such as the following: 

The program also promotes interdisciplinary learning and collaboration with industry, with the goal of producing future leaders who can drive Thailand’s innovation-based economy. 

Professor Dr. Pranat Potiyaraj, Dean of the Faculty of Science, stated that Chulalongkorn University aims to establish a complete quantum ecosystem by simultaneously developing hardware, software, and human capital. 

In 2027, Thailand’s first Ion-Trap Quantum Computer will be installed at the Faculty of Science through the collaboration between Chulalongkorn University, USTC, and Hefei Unitary Quantum Technology within a joint quantum science and technology laboratory. 

He described this as the first major step toward building national infrastructure, advancing research, supporting industry, and training quantum specialists who will help move Thailand toward a sustainable technological future. 

Professor Jin-Shi Xu, University of Science and Technology of China, described the installation of Thailand’s first quantum computer at Chulalongkorn University as a landmark achievement in Thai-Chinese scientific cooperation. 

The collaboration builds on an existing memorandum of understanding, the establishment of a joint quantum science laboratory, and ongoing academic exchanges between USTC and Chulalongkorn University. 

He emphasized that the partnership with USTC and Hefei Unitary Quantum Technology brings advanced quantum technology to Thailand while creating long-term opportunities for joint research, student and faculty exchanges, and workforce development. It also enables Thai and Chinese researchers to work together in advancing quantum science and educating the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers. 

USTC, he said, looks forward to strengthening its collaboration with Chulalongkorn University for the benefit of both countries and the wider region.