Florida State University Announces Over $20 Million Investment in Quantum Science and Engineering
Quantum engineering makes use of the principles of quantum mechanics to develop technologies beyond the capabilities of classical physics. For example, quantum computers take advantage of the ability of quantum bits to exist as 0’s and 1’s simultaneously until they are measured and connected in such a way that their properties correlate, a phenomenon known as entanglement. Harnessing the unique properties of entangled states will allow quantum computers to solve problems that would take classical computers years to compute.
“In computing, cryptography, sensing and other technologies, quantum science and engineering are poised to make major breakthroughs,” said Shatruk. “Looking at the map of quantum science initiatives and centers across the country, there is a huge gap in the Southeast. The FSU administration makes this investment a bold step towards establishing the university as a major player in this field.”
Participants in the three-day Quantum Science and Engineering Symposium in the State of Florida heard from nearly two dozen researchers from institutions such as Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Amazon, Keysight Technologies, University of Florida, Georgia Tech, University of California Irvine, University of California Los Angeles and the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory headquartered at FSU about their latest research.
“The quality of the presentations at the symposium was outstanding,” said Hill. “There has also been a great deal of time devoted to discussion, with the aim of informing the strategy going forward that will ensure FSU cements its position as a leader in quantum science and engineering research and workforce education.”
Quantum materials are the latest example of humanity’s quest to develop better materials that will impact society, said MagLab researcher Ryan Baumbach, who spoke about his research on uranium-based materials. Consider steel, an established technology that is still being pushed today by scientists. Without the steel beams that make tall buildings possible, modern cities would look very different and unmanageable as they do now.
“New materials are having an impact on society that we didn’t have to foresee,” he says. “It is absolutely true that some of the materials we discuss here could be useful for quantum computing, quantum sensors or particle accelerators. We also have the opportunity to discover new things that we could not have anticipated and may have a very big impact.”
Along with the possibility to learn more about subatomic physics and chemistry, quantum science has great opportunities to develop new technologies and partner with industry. Representatives from Amazon and Keysight Technologies talk about the work their companies are doing in this area.
“Florida State faculty continues to innovate across academic disciplines, and quantum science offers another opportunity for them to continue their world-class work,” said Provost Jim Clark. “FSU’s investment represents a commitment to advancing knowledge in this area, and I am excited to see what our faculty will develop as they move forward.”
For more information and a complete list of speakers, visit the symposium website.
Source: Florida State University
