Quantum Technologies

QUASAR

A joint Singapore–Germany research programme developing technologies for quantum-secure digital infrastructure.

About the Programme

QUASAR is a joint Singapore–Germany research programme focused on developing technologies for quantum-secure digital infrastructure. The programme brings together expertise from NTU, NUS, TUM, and Fraunhofer across hardware security, cryptography, quantum communications, and electronic design automation.

The research addresses the challenges posed by large-scale quantum computing through an integrated approach covering secure processor platforms, post-quantum cryptography (PQC), Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), and cryptographic agility, organised in three complementary research thrusts:

Thrust 1 — Open and Verifiable Quantum-Safe Hardware
Thrust 2 — Quantum Communication Security Assurance
Thrust 3 — Quantum-Safe Migration and Crypto-Agility for Future Networks

TUMCREATE hosts Thrust 1, which focuses on developing an open, transparent, and verifiable RISC-V processor platform as a trust anchor for future security-critical systems. The research integrates open-source hardware design, PQC, side-channel-resistant cryptographic implementations, secure boot, and hardened system software into a unified hardware/software platform.

Visit the QUASAR programme website for more details.

Key Objectives

Establish an open and verifiable hardware trust anchor based on RISC-V architectures and open-source IC design methodologies.
Accelerate quantum-safe cryptography through efficient hardware implementations of post-quantum and side-channel-resistant cryptographic algorithms.
Secure the complete hardware/software stack, from device identity and secure boot to trusted operating systems and runtime protection.
Enable practical deployment through FPGA prototypes, open-source design flows, and a migration path towards ASIC implementation.
Promote open-source hardware platforms and design tools to strengthen Singapore’s capabilities in secure chip design and cultivate local expertise for future quantum-safe technologies.