Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology Agency Opens Call for 2026 IFERC-CSC Supercomputer System Use, Accelerating Fusion Research

July 26, 2026

National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) Japan

Overview

The National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) has opened its call for proposals for the 2026 use of the IFERC-CSC supercomputer system. This opportunity targets researchers from Japanese universities and institutions, granting access to the Plasma Simulator supercomputer system, co-operated with the National Institute for Fusion Science. The initiative aims to enhance complex simulation and data analysis capabilities in fusion energy research, contributing to Japan’s scientific and technological advancement.

In Depth

Key Findings

The National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) has officially opened its call for proposals for the 2026 fiscal year regarding the utilization of the “IFERC-CSC Supercomputer System.” This public call targets scientists and engineers affiliated with Japanese universities and research institutions, providing them with access to the high-performance “Plasma Simulator” supercomputer system, co-operated by QST and the National Institute for Fusion Science. This initiative aims to strengthen Japan’s research capabilities, particularly in computationally intensive scientific fields like fusion energy research, by enabling advanced modeling and simulation of complex physical phenomena.

Technical Details

IFERC-CSC Supercomputer System: This system operates under the cooperation of the International Fusion Energy Research Centre (IFERC) and the Centre for Computational Science (CSC). It provides advanced computing resources capable of addressing a wide range of computational science areas, including fusion plasma behavior analysis, materials science, and reaction dynamics. The system is specifically optimized for large-scale numerical simulations and data analysis, making it an indispensable tool for fundamental research in fusion reactor design and plasma physics.
Role of the Plasma Simulator: The Plasma Simulator is a dedicated supercomputer designed for detailed simulation of phenomena such as fusion plasma confinement, heating, and instabilities. This capability allows researchers to obtain microscopic data not accessible through experiments and predict plasma behavior under extreme conditions, thereby accelerating R&D efforts towards realizing fusion energy.
Target and Objectives of the Call: The call for proposals encourages researchers from Japanese academia and research institutions to advance their respective research topics using cutting-edge computational resources. Proposals in fields such as fusion science, plasma physics, computational physics, and materials science are particularly expected, fostering new scientific discoveries and technological innovations.

Background & Context

Fusion energy is globally recognized as a sustainable and clean energy source, with its realization requiring international cooperation and advanced technological development. QST, as a central institution for fusion research in Japan, plays a critical role, including its contributions to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project. Providing access to such high-performance supercomputer systems enhances the capabilities of the entire research community and strengthens Japan’s presence in global fusion research. Furthermore, as indicated by the name “National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology,” both quantum technology and fusion research are pillars of Japan’s science and technology strategy, promoting the fusion of basic science and applied technology.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

The continuous provision of access to the IFERC-CSC supercomputer system is vital for advancing fusion energy research and will contribute to Japan’s energy security and climate change countermeasures. This system will continue to provide a crucial computational foundation for next-generation fusion reactor design, efficient plasma control, and advanced material development. Moreover, access to such computational resources is expected to contribute to the development of young researchers, playing an important role in securing talent for Japan’s future scientific and technological fields.

Source: https://www.qst.go.jp/site/rokkasyo/46853.html

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