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The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) and the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have partnered to advance quantum information science and engineering. This collaboration, formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MOU), is set to drive research, development, and deployment of innovative technologies that address critical challenges in quantum computing, networking, and sensing.
The MoU was signed at ORNL, marking the beginning of a strategic alliance aimed at harnessing the power of quantum technology. Reinhold Mann, UTC Vice Chancellor for Research, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting its significant opportunities for faculty and students.
This partnership comes as UTC intensifies its focus on quantum information science and engineering (QISE). In 2022, the university launched a dedicated QISE initiative, setting the stage for establishing a Quantum Centre within its Research Institute. The centre is poised to become a hub for cross-disciplinary research and development (R&D), fostering innovation in quantum technology and offering an educational programme that serves students and professionals in the workforce.
The collaboration between UTC and ORNL is rooted in the shared vision of advancing quantum technology to address national and global challenges. ORNL, a leader in quantum research, has been at the forefront of exploring foundational quantum theory, simulation, and experimentation across various domains, including computing, networking, sensing, and materials science. The national laboratory’s efforts are directed toward national priorities, particularly energy, security, and scientific discovery.
One key driver of this collaboration is ORNL’s development of a comprehensive “quantum roadmap,” which outlines the goals and timelines for achieving a secure and synchronised quantum network. This network aims to enhance the nation’s infrastructure by enabling safe and efficient information exchange through advanced quantum computing and communication technologies.
“A quantum-enabled future is expected to embody game-changing technologies and strategies—many that we can’t even envision today,” said Susan Hubbard, ORNL Deputy for Science and Technology. “Realising this future will require advances and integration across several quantum science and technology fronts. This partnership recognises each institution’s commitment to contributing to a quantum-enabled future through R&D and the development of a robust quantum workforce.”
The quantum roadmap focuses on three interconnected priority areas: advanced hybrid quantum computing systems and applications, secure quantum networks through entangled communication, and materials development for revolutionary quantum computing, sensing, and networking. These areas represent the cutting edge of quantum science and technology, where breakthroughs could revolutionise how we compute, communicate, and interact with the physical world.
The collaboration between UTC and ORNL aligns with broader national efforts to maintain global leadership in quantum technology. U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann, chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, highlighted the significance of this partnership. “The new collaboration between the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Oak Ridge National Laboratory is an exciting development, bringing together top researchers to tackle the major challenges in the quantum field,” Chuck said. “By mentoring the next generation of quantum scientists right here in Tennessee, we ensure that America remains at the forefront, leading the world in these cutting-edge technologies.”
Managed by UT-Battelle for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, ORNL is a pivotal player in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. The Office of Science is the most prominent supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, and its collaboration with UTC underscores a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in quantum science and technology.
As this partnership unfolds, it promises to contribute significantly to developing a quantum-enabled future that can transform industries, secure national infrastructure, and drive economic growth.
