As the world commemorates a century of quantum mechanics, Stony Brook University is playing a significant role in advancing quantum science and technology. The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ), aiming to enhance public understanding and promote breakthroughs in the field.
Shadi Shahedipour-Sandvik, SUNY's senior vice chancellor for research, innovation, and economic development, noted New York's leadership with "the most advanced regional quantum network in the U.S. with the New York State Quantum Internet Testbed." This initiative includes one of eight National Science Foundation Quantum Virtual Labs led by Stony Brook, connecting institutions like Yale, Columbia, and Brookhaven National Lab.
Stony Brook's Institute for Advanced Computational Science leads the NSF-funded Quantum Virtual Laboratory (QVL). This initiative connects laboratories across the Northeast through a 10-node quantum network involving Stony Brook University, Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL), Columbia University, and Yale University.
The university will host various events to celebrate IYQ. On June 28, it will hold the Year of Quantum Educational Leadership Conference for educators. Additionally, high school students can participate in hands-on learning at the Quantum Information Science & Technology Camp from June 30 to July 3.
Further outreach includes a QIST Summer Program at the New York Hall of Science from August 18-22 and an online Introduction to Quantum Information Science and Engineering Summer School from July 28-31 co-hosted by BNL and Virginia Tech.
Stony Brook also showcased its commitment at March's QUEST Conference for K–12 educators. Angela Kelly emphasized that "the way we teach quantum science today will shape who gets to participate in tomorrow’s innovations."
Beyond education, Stony Brook collaborates with BNL on quantum simulation advancements. Their joint team developed a framework offering insights into quantum particle behavior.
At February's Real-World Science Town Hall, experts discussed quantum research implications for national security and clean energy. Participants agreed on pairing scientific advancement with public understanding.
"100 years of quantum is just the beginning," states the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology website. As this field enters its next century, Stony Brook remains poised to influence future developments.
— Beth Squire