Murfreesboro, TN - Middle Tennessee State University is stepping into the quantum spotlight with the launch of QRISE — Quantum Research Interdisciplinary Science and Education. The center promises to be a world-class hub for quantum discovery, innovation, and workforce development.

President Sidney A. McPhee called the moment “a defining one for MTSU,” noting Tennessee’s growing role in the national quantum economy. “Quantum is developing very quickly, and promises to impact technologies with economic effects in the tens of billions within the next decade.”

He praised the vision of Provost Mark Byrnes and Dean Greg Van Patten, and the leadership of Dr. Hanna Terletska, who will direct the center.

Terletska, an associate professor in Physics and Astronomy, emphasized the strategic importance of quantum technologies across sectors like cybersecurity, energy, and health care. She said, “This is a generational opportunity for Tennessee; to lead in quantum commercialization and workforce development.”

The announcement drew support from major partners including Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Middle Tennessee Electric.

ORNL’s Shaun Gleason highlighted the shared commitment to preparing a bold, quantum-ready workforce. MTE President Chris Jones echoed that sentiment, pledging ongoing support alongside United Communications.

Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, instrumental in connecting MTSU with Oak Ridge, congratulated the university via video message, celebrating a $2.2 million Department of Energy grant that also involves Fisk, TSU, and Meharry Medical College. The TN-QuMat project, part of the U.S. Department of Energy's RENEW initiative, aims to educate new scientists in critical research areas.

Senior Ariel Nicastro, a Quantum Computing Club leader, said she’s proud to be part of the university’s early quantum efforts. “To make quantum efforts broad,” she said, “we have to have partners like Oak Ridge and MTE.”

Watch the announcement video below...