UPDATED - MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University’s growing investment in quantum research is raising new questions about how emerging technologies could one day influence systems that affect daily life, including electricity generation and power grid infrastructure... WGNS spoke with Dr. John Villanova, assistant professor in MTSU’s Department of Physics and Astronomy and associate director of research for the university’s new QRISE Center, which stands for Quantum Research Interdisciplinary Science and Education. Villanova said quantum computing has the potential to change how scientists study and develop materials used throughout the energy sector...
Although quantum research is not currently producing electricity, Villanova explained that its long-term value lies in its ability to help researchers identify stronger, safer, and more efficient materials for use in power generation facilities and grid infrastructure...
Quantum research examines how matter behaves at extremely small scales, where traditional laws of physics no longer apply. By analyzing interactions at the atomic and subatomic level, scientists are developing new tools that could impact fields such as advanced computing, sensing technology, secure communications, energy systems, health care, and national security.
The QRISE Center is housed within MTSU’s College of Basic and Applied Sciences and was created to advance quantum discovery, innovation, education, workforce development, and economic growth. University leaders say the center is designed to serve as a world-class hub for quantum information science research and training.
MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee said, “The newly established QRISE Center will drive breakthroughs that will shape the next generation of technology and transform how we understand and harness the quantum world.”
MTSU announced the new quantum center earlier this fall, highlighting partnerships with major regional and national organizations, including Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Middle Tennessee Electric. Representatives from both organizations attended the announcement and expressed support for the university’s expanding quantum research efforts...
University officials described the launch of QRISE as a defining moment for MTSU, underscoring the institution’s growing role in national and international research initiatives.
Villanova also pointed to a recent research project he completed, which reflects how MTSU faculty are already contributing to cutting-edge quantum work...
Hanna Terletska, director of the QRISE Center and associate professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, said, “Quantum science and quantum technologies are strategic U.S. priorities with economy-wide impact — from computing and cybersecurity to energy, advanced materials, health care and finance. These are areas that are critical for U.S. global leadership, national security and defense. This moment is a generational opportunity for state of Tennessee to become a national leader in quantum technologies, their commercialization and quantum economic and workforce development.”
Learn more: https://mtsunews.com/mtsu-ushers-in-new-quantum-era-with-qrise-center/.
PODCAST ABOVE ARTICLE: WGNS' Scott Walker talked to Dr. John Villanova, assistant professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and associate director of research on the QRISE Center.
The center is designed to support advanced research, education, and workforce development in quantum science, a fast-growing field that could impact areas such as computing, energy, health care, national security, and new materials. University leaders say QRISE will help MTSU play a key role in Tennessee’s growing quantum economy. The center has already received several million dollars in federal funding and will work with partners like Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Middle Tennessee Electric. Officials believe the initiative positions MTSU and the state of Tennessee as leaders in future quantum technology and innovation.
