June 26, 2025
Quantum Computing Research

Research on Quantum Computing: Who’s Winning the World Race?

Quantum computing research is gaining momentum globally, with governments, universities, and private labs investing in the field. The Quantum Index Report 2025 reveals the global efforts shaping this rapidly growing field.

Worldwide Research Output: The Top Quantum Research Authors

Between 2019 and 2023, China and the US were the top two countries in quantum computer research, producing nearly half of all published work in the field, while many others also contributed meaningfully.

The top two countries in global quantum research activity and visibility are India and Germany, followed by Japan and the United Kingdom, each contributing significantly to the global conversation.

Quantum research during that time was a global effort with a strong international base, with countries like Canada, Italy, Russia, France, Spain, South Korea, Australia, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Iran, Poland, Austria, Brazil, Taiwan, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Denmark.

Assessing Quality: H-Index Rankings in Quantum Computing Research

The H-index in quantum research indicates the influence of a country’s research, not just its number of publications, with higher scores indicating greater influence across the field.

Between 2019 and 2023, the US had the strongest impact on quantum computing research, with an H-index of 104. China followed with 61 publications, while the UK scored 46. Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, and Japan also performed well, with their work influencing others and building knowledge.

The Most Highly Cited Studies in Quantum Theory: Impact Over Quantity

The H-index measures a country’s steady influence across various papers, while the top 10% most highly cited studies focus on top-performing papers. The H-index indicates a country’s consistent influence across a large body of work. Even a country with few publications can still be included in this group.

The United States was responsible for 34% of the most significant quantum computing research between 2019 and 2023, with China coming in second at 16%. Other nations stood out despite having lesser shares. Leading quantum researchers were based across multiple continents, contributing to a growing global knowledge base.

Overall Results: Which Nations Are at the Top of the Quantum Technologies Research List?

Between 2019 and 2023, the US and China demonstrated consistent performance in quantum computing research, with the US ranking second in total publications and third in H-index and highly cited studies, while China had the highest number of published papers.

The UK, Netherlands, Japan, and Canada demonstrated efficient research efficiency, with the UK ranking third in H-index and contributing 6% of top-cited papers, while Japan and Canada showed balanced performance with steady growth and increasing international recognition.

The Bottom Line

Quantum computing research is globally active, with the US leading in quality and global influence, followed by China with the highest number of published papers. Countries like the UK, the Netherlands, Japan, and Canada are also making progress. As more regions invest, international quantum research becomes more balanced with strong output and rising talent.

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