FAQs
Texas A&M University, through IQSE, has a quantum optics and electronics core which does world class research. IQSE unites these core knowledge areas, and has fostered interdisciplinary research such as our Biophotonics group. IQSE is equally dedicated to sharing knowledge and the excitement of discovery through an active education and outreach program, graduate training, conferences, and a seminar program.
Who Are We?
The Institute was established in 2001 as the Institue for Quantum Studies. In 2010, the Institue for Quantum Studies was renamed to the Institute for Quantum Science and Engineering. The Institute for Quantum Science and Engineering is an organizational unit in the College of Arts and Sciences at Texas A&M University.
Researchers at the Institute work in collaboration with scientists across the world to study:
- Quantum Information: Quantum philosophy (e.g., first experimental hidden variable test and first demonstration of quantum erasure of information and quantum time), quantum computers, and quantum computing.
- Biophotonics: Real time detection of anthrax and other chemical/bio toxins, detection of a single virus, possible direct scanning of DNA base pairs, and laser ablation of cellular nuclei for cloning.
- Lasers for Fusion: Dramatically new lasers operating without inversion.
What is Our Mission?
IQSE is at the forefront of quantum science. The Institute’s primary purpose is to “to bring eminent scientists as speakers to Texas A&M University and arrange collaborative activities with them.”
Where Are We Located?
The Institute for Quantum Science and Engineering, housed on the 5th floor of the L-shaped George P. Mitchell ’40 Physics Building, is located at the corner of University Drive and Ireland Street on the main Texas A&M campus. The building adjoins the 6-story, 43,700 square-foot George P. and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Institute for Fundamental Physics and Astronomy. The twin cities of Bryan and College Station are consistently rated as one of the most livable metropolitan areas in the nation, with excellent schools, shopping centers, hospitals and restaurants. Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) are each about a two-hour drive away.
What Are Our Primary Areas of Research?
IQSE has two primary Research Groups dedicated to exploring quantum mechanics and its applications:
- Center for Biophotonics – Real time detection of anthrax and other chemical/bio toxins, detection of a single virus, possible direct scanning of DNA base pairs, and laser ablation of cellular nuclei for cloning.
- Center for Theoretical Physics – Quantum Information: Quantum philosophy, quantum computers, and quantum computing.
We collaborate with many other international institutes and scientists to advance our understanding of the quantum sciences.
Why is Our Work Important
Former TAMU visitor Stephen Hawking perhaps sums up the answer best: “My goal is simple. It is a complete understanding of the universe, why it is as it is and why it exists at all.”
Quantum optics and electronics is one of the emerging new technologies which offers the greatest promise for economic impact in the future. These technologies address national security issues as well as aid in the creation of new industries and jobs, and continued economic prosperity for the U.S. and Texas.
How Are We Different From Other Research Groups?
The goals associated with this purpose include promoting interdisciplinary and collaborative research in and among the various theoretical physics disciplines. At the same time, IQSE plays a unique role in understanding the translation between fundamental theories and other, “higher level”, fields of study. IQSE conducts cutting edge translational research with faculty, researchers, and graduate students coming from various departments and colleges within TAMU and AgriLife Research.
The Institute also has a strong educational and training component and is committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists. For instance, the IQSE Summer School aims to share our research with interested physics students.