The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is building a bold new effort in Quantum Science and Engineering (QSE). Our researchers work at the frontier of quantum computing, communication and sensing, drawing on unique strengths in cryogenics, materials, optics and high magnetic fields. By partnering with national labs and leading universities, we are positioning the college as a hub for innovation in quantum technologies.
Strategic Vision
Our vision is to transform discoveries in quantum science into real-world technologies that will shape the future. This initiative not only advances fundamental science but also strengthens the role of engineering in building usable, scalable quantum technologies. We have active programs to:
- Develop novel quantum devices using quantum fluids, solids, advanced materials, microwave quantum circuits, and photonic platforms.
- Engineer customized RF front-end and analog processing systems to enable scalable quantum information technologies.
- Create next-generation sensors and secure communication systems, including a quantum communication testbed designed to operate under extreme environments.
- Advance quantum optics, hybrid quantum–classical systems, and algorithms that connect fundamental discoveries with engineering applications.
- Establish a diverse and skilled workforce through new QISE courses, training programs, and outreach supported by NSF ExpandQISE and other national initiatives.
Impact
Our quantum initiative is shaping the future of science, technology and workforce development on multiple levels. By uniting fundamental science with engineering innovation, our initiative is not only advancing the frontiers of quantum research but also delivering solutions with broad and lasting societal impact.
Local Impact
We are training a new generation of engineers and scientists with cutting-edge skills in quantum science and engineering. Special emphasis is placed on broadening participation by engaging students from underrepresented groups, providing internships at the MagLab and partner labs and creating new quantum courses that strengthen our curriculum across departments. By building this talent pipeline, we are positioning Tallahassee and the State of Florida as a growing hub for quantum innovation.
National Leadership
With over $10M in NSF ExpandQISE funding and congressional support for a $2.25M quantum communication testbed, we are expanding the nation’s quantum research and education capacity. Our projects directly support U.S. priorities in secure communications, advanced sensing, and quantum computing. Through these efforts, the College contributes to national security, economic competitiveness and developing critical technologies for aerospace, defense and energy sectors.
Global Significance
Our collaborations with leading institutions — including Yale, Notre Dame, University of Chicago, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory — ensure that our research is part of the global push to realize practical quantum technologies. From quantum networks that enable unbreakable encryption to sensors capable of detecting minute changes in gravity and magnetic fields, the technologies we are developing have the potential to transform industries, accelerate scientific discovery and improve the resilience of global infrastructure.
News and Success Stories
Research Focus
We address some of the most pressing challenges in Quantum Science and Engineering through a broad set of research programs. These programs combine fundamental science with engineering innovation, leveraging unique strengths at the college and the National MagLab to push the boundaries of quantum technology:
- Quantum fluids and solids as unique platforms for qubits, quantum sensing, and precision devices.
- Microwave quantum circuits and customized RF/analog front-end systems for scalable quantum information technologies.
- Quantum optics and photonic platforms for spin qubits, quantum memories, and quantum networks.
- Hybrid quantum–classical systems and algorithms for computation, optimization, and engineering applications.
- Quantum communication technologies, including the development of a testbed to evaluate hardware performance in extreme environments.
- Quantum materials and thin-film devices to enable novel device architectures and enhance integration.
Faculty Research
Quantum research at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is a college-wide effort involving faculty from multiple departments. This initiative is inherently interdisciplinary, linking engineering innovation with the physical sciences and leveraging the unique capabilities of the National MagLab and partnerships with leading universities and national labs. The following list highlights examples of faculty actively engaged in quantum research (not a complete list):
- Quantum Fluids and Solids Based Quantum Devices
- Wei Guo (MAE, MagLab)
- Xianjing Zhou (MAE)
- Quantum Algorithms, Hybrid Systems, and Computation
- William Oates (MAE)
- Kourosh Shoele (MAE)
- Huixuan Wu (MAE)
- Quantum Optics and Photonic Networks
- Lukasz Dusanowski (ECE)
- Xianjing Zhou (MAE)
- Microwave Circuits, RF Systems, and Devices
- Bayaner Arigong (ECE)
- Quantum Materials and Device Fabrication
- Zhibin Yu (IME)
- Quantum Education, AI, and Systems Integration
- Lichun Li (IME)
- Quantum Computing in Transportation Systems
- Qianwen (Vivian) Guo (CEE)
Initiatives, Facilities & Partnerships
The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is deeply engaged with national laboratories, federal agencies, and industry leaders through our funded initiatives and shared facilities. These collaborations ensure that our quantum research directly supports national priorities in secure communication, advanced sensing, and computing.
We invite companies and organizations to further engage with us through:
- Student Development – Partner with us on internships, co-ops, and fellowships, connecting your workforce needs with our pipeline of trained engineers and scientists.
- Collaborative R&D – Work with our faculty on projects spanning quantum devices, algorithms, and materials, leveraging our unique facilities.
- Technology Testbeds – Evaluate and co-develop emerging quantum technologies under real-world and extreme operating conditions.
- Workforce Training – Benefit from our NSF ExpandQISE-supported programs and forthcoming Quantum Engineering Certificate, designed to upskill scientists and engineers for the quantum era.
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Providing wind tunnel facilities that are now being adapted for testing quantum communication hardware under turbulent atmospheric conditions.
Supporting large-scale cryogenics research, including facilities relevant to superfluid helium and cryogenic device development.
A university-wide investment of more than $20M, including the new Interdisciplinary Research & Commercialization Building (IRCB), which will house cutting-edge quantum science and engineering laboratories and collaborative spaces.
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The largest and highest-field magnet laboratory in the world, offering unparalleled opportunities for quantum materials research, device testing, and integration with cryogenic platforms.
In 2024, the College secured two $5M Track-2 awards. These grants are strengthening infrastructure, developing new courses, and creating collaborative research programs in quantum fluids and solids and in microwave quantum circuits/RF systems. A major outcome has been the establishment of a new quantum laboratory at FAMU’s Celensious Building, expanding research capacity and broadening participation in QISE.
Through the Neutron Nexus pilot program, we collaborate on advanced neutron scattering and national lab training opportunities.
Supported by congressional funding, this initiative integrates FCAAP wind tunnels, the MagLab, and FSU Hydrogen Initiative cryogenics, creating a one-of-a-kind environment for testing communication hardware under extreme conditions.
Courses & Curriculum
The following new and planned courses give students hands-on experience in quantum technologies. These courses will contribute to a Quantum Engineering Certificate currently in development, designed to prepare students for careers in this emerging field.
- Quantum Devices and Sensing
- Quantum Algorithms and Computation
- Quantum Fluids and Solids
- Quantum Optics and Networks
- Hybrid Quantum Systems
Student Opportunities
Students at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering have a wide range of opportunities to participate in quantum research and workforce development. These opportunities not only give students direct exposure to frontier research but also prepare them with the skills and networks needed to become future leaders in the quantum era.
- Research Assistantships – Supported by major NSF and DOE grants, students gain hands-on experience in quantum device fabrication, cryogenics, quantum sensing, and quantum communication experiments.
- NSF ExpandQISE Programs – With more than $10M awarded in 2024, these programs provide stipends, mentoring, and training for undergraduate and graduate students, while also supporting the development of new courses and lab facilities.
- Internships and REUs – Students can participate in Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) and internships at the National MagLab, national laboratories, and partner universities such as Yale, Notre Dame, and the University of Chicago.
- Quantum Engineering Certificate – A new certificate program in development will allow students to earn formal recognition of their training in quantum information science and engineering, complementing degrees across multiple engineering disciplines.
- Outreach and Engagement – Dedicated programs reach students from HBCUs and minority-serving institutions, offering summer internships, workshops, and collaborative training that broaden participation in the quantum workforce.
- Professional Development – Students are encouraged to attend and present at major conferences (e.g., LT30, APS March Meeting, QISE workshops), network with industry and government partners, and participate in career development seminars tailored to the quantum field.