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The Quantum Frontier

Advancing the Quantum Leap >>>

Using an unparalleled transdisciplinary focus to accelerate the integration of quantum technologies across society, realizing unprecedented computing and communication capabilities and restructuring our social framework.

Fueling quantum-aware cybersecurity strategies

The Commonwealth Cyber Initiative is marshaling the expertise of Southwest Virginia researchers and partners around the state to develop strategies to harness the power of quantum-based techniques to secure information and develop systems that withstand attack from a quantum-equipped adversary.

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Jason Legrow (at left), assistant professor in mathematics, works out a mathematical formula with Wendi Gao, a graduate student researcher. LeGrow and Gao will be working with researchers from George Mason University to make cryptographic algorithms invulnerable to quantum attacks. Photo by Kelly Izlar for Virginia Tech.

A National Priority

The National Quantum Initiative Act was signed into law on December 21, 2018. The purpose of this Act is to ensure the continued leadership of the United States in quantum information science and its technology applications. The initiative encompasses the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of Energy, and National Science Foundation, and will entail the creation of between four and 10 competitively awarded QIS research centers. Dedicated funding includes $1.275 billion over five years with a possible five-year extension.

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Quantum researchers collide

For engineers and scientists, quantum science has the bewitching possibility to leapfrog years of research. The Virginia Tech Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering was launched to bring scientists and engineers together to do just that.

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Photo showcasing a discussion between a student and researcher at the Virginia Tech Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering symposium poster session, which took place at the Blacksburg Wine Lab in Feb. 2023.

Can we really be, “Everything Everywhere All at Once”?

Professor of Physics Djordje Minic discusses the possibility of a multiverse similar to that depicted in the 2023 Academy Award-winning film.

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Quantum Research Areas

  • Computational Algorithms
  • Chemical Simulations
  • Processing Hardware
  • Memory/Storage
  • Optimization
  • Secure Data Transmission
  • Deep Space Communications
  • Neural Networks
  • Positioning, Navigation, and Timing
  • Cryptography
  • Cryptanalysis
  • Precision Measurements
  • Field Detection

Quantum Research Experts

Spanning the breadth of quantum information sciences and technology, Virginia Tech faculty, students, and partners work together at the intersection of quantum disciplines.

Sophia Economou portrait.

Sophia Economou

Edwin Barnes portrait.

Edwin Barnes

Gretchen L Matthews portrait.

Gretchen Matthews

Luke Lester portrait.

Luke Lester

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Quantum Research Sponsors

DARPA logo.
Air Force Office of Science logo.

Quantum Research Teams

Talented faculty and students are developing cutting edge research that is leading to Virginia Tech’s rise as a global destination for quantum knowledge and discovery. Virginia Tech’s quantum footprint is growing — first with the Blacksburg campus’ capabilities and now, with emerging Northern Virginia strengths.

Virginia Tech Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering
Molecular Sciences Software Institute
Barnes Research Group
Crawford Lab
Economou Research Group
Spectrum Dominance Division

Quantum News

  • Article Item
    Three people on stage in front of a crowded tavern room. Chandelier in foreground.
    Cybersecurity research aims for impact at Virginia Tech , article

    The Commonwealth Cyber Initiative in Southwest Virginia is investing in researchers working at the intersection of data, autonomy, and security. Proposals for the next round of Cybersecurity Research grants are due June 9.

    Date: May 19, 2023
  • Article Item
    Speaker at symposium
    Quantum researchers collide , article

    Researchers from departments across the university came together to discuss the current state and future possibilities of quantum research at the first Virginia Tech Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering symposium.

    Date: Mar 10, 2023
  • Article Item
    Two mathematicians working on math problems at a whiteboard.
    Program fuels development of new quantum-aware cybersecurity strategies , article

    The Commonwealth Cyber Initiative in Southwest Virginia and the Virginia Tech Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering issued two awards for the Quantum Aspects of Cybersecurity program to fuel research in quantum information science, engineering, and technology related to cybersecurity.

    Date: Jan 30, 2023
  • Article Item
    Photo of test bed research in Arlington
    Fall rankings spotlight Virginia Tech’s emphasis on research , article

    Several organizations that rank higher education institutions listed Virginia Tech among the top universities in the nation and the world in the areas of research, sustainability, and international faculty. Three of Virginia Tech’s subject areas ranked in the top 100 globally — electrical and electronic engineering, water resources, and general engineering — according to U.S. News & World Report.

    Date: Dec 22, 2022

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Dedicated Facilities


Molecular Sciences Software Institute

The Molecular Sciences Software Institute led by Virginia Tech is supported by the National Science Foundation and focused on molecular simulation software development.

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