University of Nebraska, Creighton and Others Awarded $20 million to Advance Quantum Research
By Lauren Dietrich, Student News Reporter Nebraska Public Media
May 25, 2021, noon ·
The National Science Foundation has awarded $20 million to schools across the state to study the future of quantum properties in materials. The Emergent Quantum Materials and Technologies group, also referred to as EQUATE, is a new research collaboration in Nebraska that includes University of Nebraska campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney and Creighton University, among others. The group, including 20 scientists, will study quantum properties of materials, with the potential to advance technology, medicine, and security.
University of Nebraska President Ted Carter said this project is exciting for the entire state of Nebraska.
"Nebraska is taking a major step forward in meeting the scientific and workforce needs of the future. This is to create a research and education cluster focused on quantum materials and technologies," Carter said.
In layman’s terms, Carter describes quantum science as the foundation for the modern way of life.
"The field itself is not new. But the world is now on a cusp of enormous advances that will significantly impact our day to day lives," Carter said. "In short as I've heard Chancellor Ronnie Green describe it, a second quantum revolution is underway. EQUATE is Nebraska’s answer and our opportunity to lead the way forward.”
The National Science Foundation will begin funding the research June 1 and will disperse the money over five years.