UT Launches Graduate Program in Quantum Science and Technology

A comprehensive new initiative at The University of Texas at Austin will prepare graduate students for leadership in the rapidly evolving field of quantum science and technology.

The new Quantum Cross-platform Advanced Training (Q-CAT) program is built on a full training model that integrates coursework, hands-on research, professional development, mentorship and outreach. A centerpiece of the program is the new graduate certificate in quantum science and technology (QST), which provides students from engineering and natural sciences with a shared foundation in quantum principles and applications.

Students engage in immersive, interdisciplinary research projects that bridge quantum materials, devices, platforms, and applications, highlighting UT Austin's strength at the intersection of semiconductor microelectronics and quantum-relevant technologies-where advances in scalable manufacturing and integration are critical to translating quantum science into transformative technologies.

"Quantum technologies are poised to change the world, and we need a workforce ready to lead that transformation," said Xiuling Li, leader of the Q-CAT program, professor in the Cockrell School of Engineering 's Chandra Family Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and College of Natural Sciences' Department of Chemistry, co-director of Texas Quantum Institute and director of the Microelectronics Research Center. "This initiative is about building a complete training environment where coursework, research, and professional development all happen together, reinforcing each other."

The new program is supported by a $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation's Research Traineeship program.

To extend its impact beyond the classroom and laboratory, Q-CAT will connect students with national labs and industry leaders at the forefront of quantum innovation. Partners include Sandia National Laboratories, Air Force Research Laboratory, IBM, NVIDIA, HRL Laboratories, and the Texas Institute for Electronics, creating opportunities for internships, mentoring, community outreach, and collaborative research projects.

"This is an exciting time for quantum science, and we are proud to lead the charge," said Xiaoqin Elaine Li, co-director of the Texas Quantum Institute, professor in the College of Natural Sciences' Department of Physics, and co-leader of Q-CAT. "Our goal is to prepare students to thrive in the growing quantum industry and to bring the benefits of quantum technology to society."

Other faculty members participating include Jean Anne Incorvia, Linran Fan, Shyam Shankar, Poulami Das, and Yaoyao Jia from electrical and computer engineering; Nicholas Hunter-Jones from the Department of Physics; and Michael Cullinan from the Department of Mechanical Engineering.