HUNTSVILLE – The Southeastern Quantum Collaborative, a regional initiative that will accelerate the advancement and application of quantum information science and technology was launched today, the University of Alabama in Huntsville announced.
Designed to position the Southeast as a global leader in quantum computing and emerging quantum technologies, the collaborative will unite academic institutions, industry partners and government organizations. It will officially launch Jan. 1.
The collaborative aims to leverage the region’s unique concentration of cleared defense infrastructure, advanced missile defense expertise and strong base of prime contractors to accelerate the transition of quantum information science and technology into field-ready capabilities for the warfighter.
“Quantum research is a national priority, and the technologies it produces are essential to maintaining our security and competitiveness,” said Dr. Robert Lindquist, vice president for Research and Economic Development at UAH. “By focusing our efforts on turning scientific discovery into real-world capability, we can provide meaningful support to federal agencies and address critical national needs.”
It will also support the contractor community with specialized expertise and workforce development. Early focus areas include quantum sensing, communications and networking, and computation and algorithms.
In addition to UAH, founding members of the SQC include IBM, Davidson Technologies and Alabama A&M University. Additional organizations — the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Oak Ridge Associated Universities, IonQ and Leidos — have committed to join as inaugural members.
“National and international efforts illustrate the strategic importance of quantum science,” said Dr. Rainer Steinwandt, dean of the UAH College of Science and the collaborative’s executive director. “For instance, NATO approved its first quantum strategy last year, aiming at the Alliance’s quantum-readiness. The unique combination of universities, industry, and defense expertise in the Southeast gives us a platform to accelerate quantum breakthroughs that matter.
“Our region’s talent, infrastructure, and mission-driven focus places us in an ideal position to play a leadership role in translational quantum science.”
A board of governance composed of representatives from member organizations will guide the collaborative’s activities, ensuring alignment with research priorities, workforce needs, and new federal opportunities.
“The challenges of quantum science are too big for any single institution,” said UAH President Dr. Charles Karr. “The Southeastern Quantum Collaborative brings together universities, industry and federal partners to create a coordinated, regional engine that builds technologies, talent, and opportunities that will benefit the entire region.
“As the founding institution, UAH is proud to lead this effort and help drive our region’s position as a national hub for quantum innovation.”
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