Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs Allyson Watson,FAMU-FSU College of Engineering professors Wei Guo and Bayaner Arigong, and Dean Suvranu De.
The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering has been thrust into the forefront of quantum science research with the award of two $5 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grants. This significant investment, totaling $10 million, is part of a broader $39 million initiative by the NSF to expand quantum research activities across more institutions through the NSF Expanding Capacity in Quantum Information Sciences and Engineering program.
Bayaner Arigong, Ph.D., an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, is leading the project titled "Developing Quantum Information Science and Engineering Research and Education Program at FAMU," which aims establish a robust research and education program in quantum information science and engineering. His goal is to develop a novel quantum integrated chip, a new quantum experimental training platform, and infrastructure to support research activities, education, and workforce development, particularly focusing on Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the U.S.
Wei Guo, Ph.D., a professor of mechanical engineering, is spearheading the second project, "Quantum Fluids and Solids as Platforms for Quantum Science and Engineering." This research leverages unique quantum fluids and solids to explore emerging qubit platforms, optomechanical sensors, and quantum interference devices, with the goal of advancing the understanding and application of quantum mechanics.
FAMU Vice President for Research Charles Weatherford, Ph.D., highlighted the importance of these grants, stating, "These grants have positioned the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and FAMU STEM at the forefront of quantum states and quantum dynamics, a field that has been known for over a century but whose possibilities we have only begun to explore."
FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Dean Suvranu De, Sc.D., expressed excitement about the transformative impact of these grants, noting, "This fantastic grant takes us to the next level of quantum sensing, quantum communications, and quantum computing, which will not only transform our economy but also lead the world."
The NSF Expanding Capacity in Quantum Information Science and Engineering (ExpandQISE) program aims to accelerate quantum research by reducing barriers to participation and increasing the diversity and breadth of U.S. institutions involved. NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan emphasized the importance of engaging the full spectrum of talent across U.S. communities to maintain global leadership in quantum information science.
These two grants mark a significant step forward in the quantum science revolution, positioning FAMU-FSU College of Engineering as a leader in this critical area of science and technology.