UConn has hired an expert to advance its rise as a leader in interdisciplinary quantum research. Lindsay DiStefano, UConn’s interim vice president for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, is excited to welcome Kharzeev to UConn. “He will help us build a network that connects investigators across disciplines through compelling and groundbreaking research,” DiStefano says. “Already, we see UConn researchers excited about building quantum algorithms to rapidly identify the best treatments for diseases, creating innovative materials through quantum technologies, and developing innovative strategies using quantum computing that enhance our financial and insurance sectors. “Through Dr. Kharzeev’s leadership and expertise, UConn researchers will develop transformative new applications of these technologies to help solve our toughest scientific and technical challenges.” With UConn and the State of Connecticut’s burgeoning development as a quantum research and technology accelerator, Kharzeev says the time was right for his move. Additionally, he has connections with many UConn faculty members and looks forward to collaborative research in quantum and other disciplines. Kharzeev comes to UConn at a pivotal time, with record-breaking federal and state funding supporting the growth of quantum research and infrastructure. He will help lead the UConn Quantum Alliance, an interdisciplinary group of dozens of faculty members all conducting research in quantum-related disciplines. In the bigger picture, Kharzeev will be an important figure in the UConn-led QuantumCT Engine. The National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded program synergizes academia, government, and public and private industry to advance Connecticut as an accelerator for quantum innovation that can deliver broad societal and economic benefits. In July, UConn was awarded a two-year, $15 million NSF Regional Innovation Engine, one of only 12 projects nationwide to be funded. The grant could potentially grow to $160 million over 10 years, with an additional $121 million of state investments already made or promised to build Connecticut’s quantum infrastructure (cont'd)... Read more about Kharzeev's background at Hartford Courant. Unique to Connecticut, he says, is a strong industrial base that is well positioned to benefit from advances in quantum science and technology, including computing, materials, financial technologies, pharmaceuticals, cybersecurity, national security and defense, energy, and communications. Kharzeev sees an important role for UConn in connecting fundamental research with the challenges facing these industries, creating a two-way exchange in which scientific advances enable new technologies while real-world problems inspire new directions for research. “I think the potential here is outstanding,” Kharzeev says. “Quantum computers, quantum sensors, and other emerging quantum technologies are not simply applications of what we already know — they are new instruments of discovery and innovation. They allow us to tackle problems that were previously beyond our reach, from understanding fundamental laws of nature to solving some of the most difficult problems facing industry. In turn, pursuing these new frontiers in science and technology drives the development of even more powerful quantum tools.” “The goal of the Quantum Alliance is to bring together researchers who develop quantum technologies, scientists who use them to explore fundamental questions, and industry partners who can turn new capabilities into real-world impact,” he continues. “I believe some of the most exciting advances will happen at these interfaces.” Connecticut’s quantum future depends on educating its students and workforce with the skills they will need to be competitive and fulfill the demands of rapidly evolving industry. Kharzeev says that is an important challenge for UConn.
UConn hires internationally known quantum physicist. Goal is solving tough scientific and technical challenges
“Quantum science is often described as following a familiar path from fundamental discovery to transformative technology. My view is a little different,” says Kharzeev. “What we are witnessing today is not simply a one-way transition from science to technology, but a synthesis of the two. Fundamental discoveries are giving rise to powerful new quantum technologies, while these technologies, in turn, are becoming new tools for exploring nature and making fundamental discoveries. It is this continuous interplay between discovery and innovation that makes the quantum revolution so exciting.”
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