Quantum Technologies

Barnes & Thornburg’s Quantum Technology Practice Group is based in Chicago, situated within one of the nation’s most dynamic quantum corridors anchored by the Chicago Quantum Exchange, Argonne National Laboratory, and Fermilab. From this vantage point, the group is immersed in cutting-edge discovery and commercialization, engaging directly with the institutions and initiatives that define the sector’s direction and pace.

The practice maintains active engagement across the United States quantum ecosystem, including national initiatives focused on post-quantum security, networking, and testbed deployment. Through these relationships, the team remains deeply integrated with the federal, state, academic, and commercial communities shaping the future of quantum technologies, enabling pragmatic counsel that aligns with the field’s rapidly evolving standards and opportunities.

Helping You Lead the Way in a Transformative Industry

• Regulatory and Government Strategy – As you navigate quantum’s policy landscape, our attorneys can help you stay aligned with federal and state requirements – from export controls and incentives to national security issues – and position your interests in emerging quantum policy discussions.
• Immigration and Talent Strategies – Building a global quantum team often means managing complex visa requirements. Our attorneys can guide you through H-1B, O-1 and other pathways so you can recruit and retain the talent you need.
• Intellectual Property – Protecting quantum algorithms, hardware innovations, and trade secrets, as part of intellectual property registration, licensing, enforcement, and other strategies
• Technology Transactions – Whether pursuing licensing, joint ventures or “quantum-as-a-service” models, our attorneys can help you structure agreements that bring technology to market.
• Commercial Contracts and Technology Procurement – Vendor agreements, supply chain contracts and procurement arrangements can carry new risks in quantum. Barnes & Thornburg attorneys help you negotiate terms that protect your interests and ensure alignment between technology capabilities, compliance requirements, and strategic objectives.
• Research Collaboration and Funding Support – Collaboration with universities, national labs, and industry partners often involves complex agreements and funding arrangements. We draft and negotiate research agreements, technology transfer arrangements, and federal or academic grants to accelerate innovation.
• Corporate, M&A, and Venture Finance – Quantum startups and investors face unique pressures when raising capital or pursuing acquisitions. We can help you navigate corporate structuring, venture financing, and private equity transactions.
• Post-Quantum Cybersecurity and Data Protection – As you prepare for the cybersecurity challenges of quantum computing, we can help you adopt quantum-safe encryption, secure sensitive data and mitigate cybersecurity and privacy risks.
• Economic Development and Infrastructure – If your project touches energy, microelectronics or related infrastructure, our attorneys can work with you to build partnerships, pursue public-private initiatives and engage policymakers.
• Compliance and Risk Management – Operating in the quantum space means navigating evolving regulations, IP protections, and security expectations that are still taking shape. Our attorneys work with clients to design compliance programs, conduct risk audits, and address regulatory, intellectual property, and cybersecurity obligations before they become liabilities.
• International Strategy and Global Standards – For clients engaged in cross-border collaborations, we provide guidance on export controls, international standards and regulatory requirements that shape global participation.

Embedded in the Quantum Ecosystem

Quantum innovation is gaining momentum across the country — from Chicago and Palo Alto to Boston, Washington D.C., and Austin — where research, investment, and commercialization are converging. 

With offices across the nation, and long-standing relationships across their academic, industry, and government communities, Barnes & Thornburg is deeply connected to the networks driving U.S. quantum leadership. We work alongside clients, investors, and policymakers in these regions to advance projects, protect technology, and navigate the evolving legal and regulatory landscape.

Thought Leadership Drives Client Impact

Our attorneys do not just follow developments in quantum technology — they work with researchers, policymakers and industry leaders to identify emerging legal and policy challenges.

Those engagements shape the counsel we deliver. From structuring complex collaborations and navigating export controls to securing research funding and aligning with evolving standards, our involvement ensures advice grounded in real-world developments. The result is practical, forward-looking guidance that supports your company to move forward with confidence rooted in legal rigor and a nuanced understanding of the ecosystem where quantum innovation is accelerating.

Partnering for Transformative Outcomes

Change is relentless — and so are we. We combine deep experience, cross-disciplinary insight and practical guidance to help you harness quantum technologies, manage risk and realize your company’s measurable impact. Our focus is on what you can achieve, not just on the law itself.