Southern Connecticut State University opens CSCU Center for Quantum & Nanotechnology

Southern Connecticut State University opened the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities Center for Quantum and Nanotechnology on March 23. A ribbon cutting ceremony marked the occasion and included state leaders, industry partners, faculty and students. The center is located on the ground floor of the Academic Science and Laboratory Building. The facility serves as a research hub and workforce engine for quantum computing, nanomaterials and advanced manufacturing. It builds on the CSCU Center for Nanotechnology established in 2013 as a statewide hub for interdisciplinary research across chemistry, biology, physics and engineering. Dr. Christine Broadbridge, founding director for the center and SCSU executive director of research and innovation, said the center represents a commitment to the future. She said expanding to include quantum reflects the evolution of the science and a forward looking commitment to preparing students and the state. Governor Ned Lamont said the effort makes education real and relevant and will make an enormous difference in drug discovery and industries like insurance and biotech. Dr. Al Green, CEO of QuantumCT, said the center creates the connection between education, industry and innovation. Dr. John Maduko, interim chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system, said the role of CSCU and Southern is to democratize quantum technology for the people of Connecticut. Maggie Blanchard, a junior double majoring in physics engineering and applied mathematics, said the center taught her to see herself as someone who truly belongs in research. She has conducted hands on work in microscopy, spectroscopy and diffraction through the Werth Industry Academic Fellowship. Crossby Dessalines, a senior research fellow, said his introduction to quantum research changed his trajectory and he is now developing educational modules in quantum computing and encryption. Dr. Sandra Bulmer, interim president of Southern Connecticut State University, said the experiential learning model moves students beyond theory and embeds industry inspired skills directly into the curriculum. The university is Connecticut's only public Carnegie classified Research 2 university.