Georgia Tech launches Institute for Matter and Systems (IMS) to advance quantum computing research and commercialization pathways.
Georgia Tech's Institute for Matter and Systems (IMS), in collaboration with the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), has launched the Georgia Tech Quantum Applications Research Center (GT QuARC), an interdisciplinary research center designed to unite Georgia Tech's quantum research community, expand strategic partnerships, and accelerate quantum technology development.
The center is co-directed by Martin Mourigal, Dunn Family Professor in the School of Physics, and Robert Wyllie, division chief of the Quantum System Division in GTRI's Cybersecurity, Information Protection, and Hardware Evaluation Research (CIPHER) lab.
"Quantum technologies are rapidly moving from scientific theory toward practical application," said Julia Kubanek, vice president of Interdisciplinary Research. "This center builds on Georgia Tech's expertise to help lead that transition by connecting research with industry, government, and societal needs."
Drawing on Georgia Tech's strengths in atomic physics, materials science, engineering, computing, photonics, sensing, and advanced manufacturing, GT QuARC will serve as a hub for quantum research and collaboration across both institutions. The center will bridge fundamental discovery and practical application, creating new opportunities in quantum technologies while strengthening Georgia Tech's leadership in computing, sensing, communications, and national security.
Quantum technologies leverage quantum mechanics principles to perform tasks difficult or impossible with conventional approaches. As federal agencies and industry partners increase quantum research investment, Georgia Tech is positioned to contribute advances in quantum materials, devices, systems, algorithms, and applications.
"Quantum breakthroughs happen at the intersection of disciplines," said Wyllie. "By connecting the researchers and resources across Georgia Tech and GTRI, we're building a stronger foundation for quantum innovation."
GT QuARC will provide a unified identity for Georgia Tech's quantum community and create opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, students, industry partners, government agencies, and national laboratories.
"One goal for the center is to identify meaningful applications for emerging quantum technologies," said Mourigal. "Another is to build connections among researchers, industry, and government. Those conversations are essential to discovering where quantum technologies can have the greatest impact. For that to happen, we must coordinate and optimize efforts across campus."
"A core part of IMS's mission is creating opportunities that enable breakthrough discoveries and accelerate emerging areas of research," said Eric Vogel, executive director of IMS. "GT QuARC provides a framework for bringing together Georgia Tech's quantum expertise and building the partnerships needed to advance both scientific discovery and real-world impact."
The center will initially focus on three research thrusts. Quantum Building Blocks and Enabling Technologies will advance the materials, devices, fabrication methods, control technologies, and characterization capabilities needed to create and manipulate quantum states. Quantum Systems and Manufacturing Testbeds will integrate these building blocks into scalable quantum sensing, computing, communication, and simulation platforms, supported by shared research infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities. Quantum Computing, Algorithms, and Applications will develop quantum and hybrid quantum-classical approaches to challenges in scientific discovery, industry, national security, and other areas of societal importance.
Beyond research advancement, GT QuARC will support education and workforce development by expanding hands-on learning opportunities, strengthening industry engagement, and connecting students with emerging careers in quantum science and engineering.
The center will also help Georgia Tech pursue strategic investments in quantum infrastructure, including advanced characterization capabilities, micro- and nanofabrication resources, sensing platforms, and access to leading quantum computing systems.
By consolidating expertise from across Georgia Tech's colleges, research centers, and GTRI, GT QuARC positions the Institute as a leader in translating quantum discoveries into technologies that address national priorities and societal challenges. More information about Georgia Tech's quantum ecosystem is available at quantum.gatech.edu.