# BRITE Pivot: Hybrid Quantum-Classical Algorithms for Scalable Topology Optimization

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of North Carolina at Charlotte (NC) · $599,957

## Abstract

This BRITE project explores how emerging quantum computing can enhance the design of high-performance engineering structures. As products such as aircraft components, automotive frames, and 3D-printed parts become more complex, engineers rely on computational tools to optimize material usage and performance. However, traditional methods struggle to keep up with the scale and complexity of modern design problems. This research seeks to develop a new hybrid computational approach that combines quantum and classical computing to improve design speed, efficiency, and quality. The project will also create educational materials to help students and professionals understand how quantum computing can be applied to real-world engineering challenges. 

This research introduces a hybrid quantum-classical approach to topology optimization that strategically applies quantum computing to the most computationally demanding steps in the design process. The project focuses on three main contributions, seeking to solving large, sparse linear systems using quantum methods; estimating design sensitivities via quantum gradient estimation without relying on adjoint solvers; and updating material distributions using variational quantum circuits optimized through quantum natural gradient descent. These research tasks are intended for near-term quantum hardware and will be implemented and tested on both simulators and available quantum processors. By targeting numerical bottlenecks of classical top

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2527378
- **Awardee organization:** University of North Carolina at Charlotte (NC)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** JB33DT84JNA5
- **PI:** Alireza Tabarraei
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** QUANTUM COMPUTING, Complex Systems, System Design and Simulation
- **Estimated total:** $599,957
- **Funds obligated:** $599,957
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 08/15/2025 → 07/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2527378

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2527378, BRITE Pivot: Hybrid Quantum-Classical Algorithms for Scalable Topology Optimization. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-15 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2527378. Licensed CC0.

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