University of Pittsburgh Offers $11.6 Million Loan to Develop Quantum Innovation Hub

Insider Summary

• The Pitt Strategic Progress Fund has approved a $11.6 million loan to support the establishment of the Western Pennsylvania Quantum Information Core (WPQIC).
• More than 10 years ago, Pitt founded the Pittsburgh Quantum Institute, a collaboration between Pitt, Carnegie Mellon University and Duquesne University faculty.
• Critical Quote: “Core will enable the entire region to ‘level up’ to a more comprehensive and integrated platform for quantum experiments across a wide range of fundamental physics and emerging applications.” — Rob A. Rutenbar, University of Pittsburgh senior vice chancellor for research.
• Image: University of Pittsburgh

PRESS RELEASE — Quantum physics can seem almost metaphysical at times, but even fields that introduce spooky action at a distance are based on the real world of computers, networks, and sensors.

To usher in the next era of quantum technology, researchers need custom-built equipment that can process data faster and take the field further.

As a testament to Pitt’s dedication to leading, the University’s Strategic Advances Fund has approved its first loan, $11.6 million, to support the establishment of the Western Pennsylvania Quantum Information Core (WPQIC). This cross-disciplinary and multi-agency effort will position the University and its partners at the forefront of the field.

More than 10 years ago, Pitt founded Pittsburgh Quantum Institute, a collaboration between the faculties of Pitt, Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Duquesne. Last year the institute made its first agreement with an industry partner in commercialization services.

“The bottom line will enable the entire region to ‘level up’ to a more comprehensive and integrated platform for quantum experiments across a range of fundamental physics and new applications,” said Rob A. Rutenbar, Pitt’s senior vice chancellor for research.

Pitt is on the cutting edge of quantum education, offering one of the firsts bachelor’s degree in the field. It will now become a hub where students, researchers and industry partners come together to form a stronger foundation of the disciplines of quantum information science and engineering (QUISE).

“The bottom line is a natural progression for Pitt, who has been dedicated to cutting-edge quantum information science and engineering research,” said Rob Cunningham, vice chancellor for research infrastructure. “This is a natural next step.”

However, to continue to lead, researchers need special equipment: correlated photon counters, machines that allow work to be done in a vacuum, and refrigerators that can maintain temperatures just above absolute zero.

There are many ways to build this quantum hardware.

“What brings all these different techniques together is that they are difficult,” said Michael Hatridge, a professor of physics in the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, maker of quantum computers and inaugural director of WPQIC.

“The core job is to make them just ‘super tough.’ By bringing together these amazing modern instruments, we should be able to make great strides in quantum research,” said Hatridge.

WPQIC will support faculty by providing this state-of-the-art instrumentation and adding staff. This expanded capability will allow Pitt to continue to expand its program offerings across many QUISE areas, providing all students, researchers, and faculty with a unique opportunity to use tools that most researchers don’t have access to on a regular basis.

Quantum science is not solely a physicist endeavor, so investments will be made in existing facilities in the chemistry and physics departments of the Dietrich School, Swanson School of Engineering, and the School of Computing and Information. The new center facilities will enable more collaborative research.

WPQIC embodies the core of the University’s goals as outlined in its strategic initiatives, Plans for Pitt, by helping provide the best opportunities for students and staff while bringing a thriving industry to the region. This vision — one of a new industrial ecosystem and the opportunities it brings — is shared by Mayor Ed Gainey.

“Pittsburgh has been able to thrive in large part because of its ability to embrace cutting-edge technology,” said Gainey. “That’s why I support the West Pennsylvania Quantum Information Core at the University of Pittsburgh. This will help develop a quantum-ready workforce ready to make new discoveries and develop new industries that will benefit everyone in the region.”

The more projects supported, the University and the region will continue to experience growth.

“As the first initiative to receive (this strategic funding), West Pennsylvania’s Quantum Information Core reflects the University’s commitment to Pitt’s leadership in quantum information science,” said Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer Hari Sastry. “This is an excellent example of how the University can use these funds to invest in strategic initiatives that will enhance Pitt’s strong research reputation.”