Quantum Initiative
About the Notre Dame Quantum Initiative
Notre Dame is bringing its work in quantum science and engineering together under one initiative. The Notre Dame Quantum Initiative (NDQI) unites researchers across the Colleges of Science and Engineering — and Notre Dame's existing quantum centers, facilities, and industry partnerships — into a single, coordinated effort to advance the next generation of quantum technologies.
Quantum is not one field but a stack, and Notre Dame's distinctive strength is the ability to work across all of it: the materials that make qubits possible, the devices built from them, the control systems that run them, and the algorithms that put them to use. NDQI is organized to connect these layers rather than pursue them in isolation.
Research Thrusts
- Quantum computing and simulation — developing the hardware, software, and error-correction approaches needed for useful quantum computation.
- Quantum sensing and metrology — atomic-scale sensors for precision measurement, with applications from fundamental science to health.
- Quantum networking and communication — the longer-horizon foundations for connecting quantum systems.
Foundation Capabilities
- Quantum materials — better, longer-lasting materials at the heart of quantum devices.
- Quantum devices and fabrication — designing and building qubits and the systems around them.
- Cryogenic electronics and control — the specialized electronics that operate quantum hardware at scale.
- Quantum algorithms, software, and error correction — turning quantum hardware into scientific and computational capability.