Giving in Action

Infleqtion fellowships inspire physics graduate students

Anonymous — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 15:16:57 +0000

Infleqtion fellowships inspire physics graduate students Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 06/25/2024 - 09:16

Kirsten Apodaca

Pictured above: Sarah Dickson, Patricia Hector Hernandez, and Benjamin Shearer reflect on their experience receiving an Infleqtion Graduate Fellowship.

The third cohort of Infleqtion Graduate Fellowship recipients has been named, recognizing four outstanding first-year physics graduate students. This year’s Infleqtion fellows Natalie Bruhwiler, Yun Ma, Joseph McCarty, and Kai Zhou, join a growing list of students receiving the prestigious industry-sponsored fellowship.

Connections to CU ��«��Ƶ

In 2007, Dana Anderson, professor of physics and JILA fellow, founded Infleqtion (formerly ColdQuanta) based on quantum innovations originating from his lab on campus. Drawing on cutting-edge quantum research, the startup largely focused on utilizing the Bose-Einstein Condensate for quantum computing.

ColdQuanta was rebranded as Infleqtion in 2022, signifying the organization’s turning point to commercializing quantum technologies. From its humble beginnings in Anderson’s lab, Infleqtion has grown to employ over 200 people in six locations worldwide.

Today, Infleqtion focuses on making quantum available everywhere, through scalable devices that allow their technology to expand its reach.

Infleqtion is also a core member of the Elevate Quantum consortium along with CU ��«��Ƶ. The consortium includes about 120 organizations – from industry to national labs, to educational institutions – working together to make the Mountain West the global center for quantum development.

Industry sponsored fellowships draw top students

As a company that grew out of a research lab at CU ��«��Ƶ, Infleqtion has long been a part of quantum education and development at the university. The establishment of Infleqtion Graduate Fellowships has deepened their commitment to the recruitment and success of physics graduate students.

"We are incredibly proud to partner with CU ��«��Ƶ, one of the world’s top Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics Programs, to support the development of the next generation of quantum scientists. Our Graduate Fellowships program is a testament to our commitment to fostering talent and innovation in the quantum field," said Infleqtion CEO Matthew Kinsella.

The fellowships are among the highest awards given to entering physics students and help encourage top students to attend CU ��«��Ƶ.

“Our graduate students are in many ways the engine of our research efforts, so bringing in the best graduate students is an important part of maintaining our top-quality research program,” said Tobin Munsat, professor and chair of physics.

Several Infleqtion fellowship recipients highlighted what it meant to receive the award, and that it ultimately helped them choose CU ��«��Ƶ.

“Receiving this fellowship was a great honor for me,” said physics graduate student and 2023 Infleqtion fellowship recipient, Patricia Hector Hernandez. “It’s incredibly rewarding when your hard work is acknowledged by others.”

Sarah Dickson was among the first class of Infleqtion fellowship recipients in 2022. She was drawn to the range of hands-on research happening in ��«��Ƶ. “Coming to ��«��Ƶ for graduate school was a dream of mine,” she said. “The fellowship allowed me to choose ��«��Ƶ for graduate school, and for that I am extremely grateful.”

Benjamin Shearer, now a second-year physics graduate student, originally applied to the program because of its top rankings in atomic, molecular, and optical physics. After being awarded the Infleqtion fellowship, Shearer said “it was the deciding factor that led me to choose CU ��«��Ƶ.”

The fellowship support also helped recipients ease the financial burden of moving to Colorado for graduate school.

“The fellowship provided substantial support, which was especially helpful for my relocation as I was an out-of-state student,” said Hector.

Shearer was also an out-of-state student and said the fellowship supported him in making the move from his home in Pennsylvania to Colorado.

Industry panel highlights opportunities

Part of Infleqtion’s support includes funding for an industry panel and recruitment dinner for prospective physics graduate students. Providing visiting students with an industry panel highlights potential career opportunities and emphasizes the vast range of local connections.

In the past few years, representatives from Infleqtion and other organizations have served on the graduate recruitment industry panel, sharing their stories and tips for pursuing careers in industry.

“The industry panel is something special that we do at CU, and it opens students’ eyes to the world outside of academia,” said Munsat. “The fact is that a large number of physics PhDs end up in the tech industry, sometimes starting their own companies, and we want to give students a window into that world and those opportunities.”

Shearer noted the excellent connections in the area as another reason he chose to attend CU ��«��Ƶ. After he completes his PhD, Shearer plans to pursue a career in industry or at a national laboratory.

Hector’s main career focus is further pursuing her passion for physics and science. She is leaning towards a career in the private sector, with a particular focus on quantum computing.

Developing future leaders

The need for leading scientists in the quantum industry is growing, particularly as the industry evolves and expands. Colorado’s designation as a Quantum Tech Hub means more students will be needed to lead the industry.

Infleqtion’s support is key in helping to attract and retain top students from around the country and internationally. “These prestigious fellowships help enormously in bringing the best students to CU ��«��Ƶ,” said Munsat.

Over the past three years, Infleqtion has sponsored prestigious fellowships and an industry panel for incoming physics graduate students. The company maintains close ties with the university, highlighting the importance of industry and higher ed working together to develop future leaders in the field.

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Quantum Scholars program draws new sponsors from industry, alums

Anonymous — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:37:55 +0000

Quantum Scholars program draws new sponsors from industry, alums Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 06/20/2024 - 09:37

Kirsten Apodaca

The Quantum Scholars program has garnered support from several new sponsors, leading to an increase in the number of fellowships available for students this fall. Forty undergraduates will receive a $2,500 fellowship next academic year because of the generous external support.

Earlier this year, SPIE, the society for optics and photonics, committed to matching $100,000 in external gifts to the Quantum Scholars program over the next two years. The substantial commitment from SPIE has spurred action from industry and donors, resulting in a growing list of supporters.

The sponsors include several CU ��«��Ƶ alumni and friends, including Tim Valle (PhDPhys’92) in honor of his late wife Jennifer Turner-Valle (EngPhys’92), Tom Bliska (Phys’77) and his wife Gray Boyce, Joe Mitchell (PhDPhys’87) and his wife Cindy Mitchell, Chris Monroe (PhDPhys’92), and Chris Myatt (PhDPhys’97) and his family.

Chris Myatt commented on his recent commitment, “The physics education at the ��«��Ƶ is top notch and prepared me for the diverse needs as an entrepreneur.” He added “I have hired dozens of graduates into my companies, and I am proud to support the next generation of researchers and innovators.”

William Clark, VP for Quantum Development at Infleqtion, presents to students in the Quantum Scholars program.

Industry partners Infleqtion and Vescent have also committed funds to sponsor the program. Both companies are valued partners and have strong connections to CU ��«��Ƶ.

Infleqtion was originally launched as ColdQuanta in 2007 by Dana Anderson, professor of physics and JILA fellow, based on quantum technologies developed in his lab. The company now focuses on making quantum available everywhere, through scalable devices that allow their technology to expand its reach.

Since its humble beginnings in the Anderson lab, Infleqtion has grown into a worldwide company with a presence in the US, UK, Australia and Japan. “We are ever so proud, though, to have our roots at the ��«��Ƶ,” said Anderson, who now serves as Chief Strategy Officer.

Infleqtion has contributed to the Quantum Scholars program beyond their funding, with several leading scientists and guests giving talks to the scholars. "The university has a history of equipping students to get things done like no other institution I know of – the hands-on education and training here is the best in the world,” said Anderson. “We are pleased to contribute to the tradition through our support of the Quantum Scholars program.”

Scott Davis, CEO and co-founder of Vescent, speaks with students in the Quantum Scholars program.

Vescent was co-founded by Scott Davis (PhDChemPhys’99) in 2002. Based out of Golden, Colorado, Vescent develops and manufactures precision lasers and electro-optic technologies. Davis now serves as CEO and Cofounder of Vescent, and maintains close ties with the university by serving on the Physics Advancement Advisory Committee and through substantial contributions to the Quantum Scholars program.

“Quantum Scholars is second-to-none in providing education and skills for companies like mine, and our customers and partners,” said Davis. He wishes a program like Quantum Scholars existed when he was a student at CU ��«��Ƶ, adding “it’s an incredible program!”

The quantum industry itself has seen a large rise in attention and funding recently, and CU ��«��Ƶ has been at the forefront of significant advances both scientifically and in workforce development.

“As quantum technologies transition from the lab to the field, they are poised to disrupt multiple industries,” said Davis. “Just as CU ��«��Ƶ led the scientific advances decades ago that set the world down this path – through creation of the Bose-Einstein Condensate, frequency combs, and much more – CU is again leading with training the much-needed quantum workforce.”

These generous gifts from alumni, friends and industry partners directly support fellowships for Quantum Scholars, enabling them to dedicate themselves to research and education in the quantum field.

Questions about getting involved in the Quantum Scholars Program as an industry partner or supporter can be directed to Keawe Liu.

The Quantum Scholars program has garnered support from several new sponsors, leading to an increase in the number of fellowships available for students this fall.

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Jennifer Turner-Valle scholarships support Quantum Scholars

Anonymous — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 21:21:06 +0000

Jennifer Turner-Valle scholarships support Quantum Scholars Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 03/07/2024 - 14:21

Kirsten Apodaca

Five students in the Quantum Scholars program have been awarded a scholarship in honor of Jennifer Turner-Valle, an alumna of CU ��«��Ƶ Physics. The named scholarships are a tribute to Dr. Turner-Valle who passed away in 2023.

Jennifer Turner-Valle earned a bachelor of science degree in engineering physics in 1992. During her studies at CU ��«��Ƶ, she developed a particular interest in optics. Beyond her passion for academics, she was an active member of the marching band, participated in the Society of Physics Students, played on a club ice hockey team, and loved exploring the outdoors.

Dr. Turner-Valle earned her PhD in physics from the University of Arizona, where she studied thin-film optics. Her career path spanned work on space instrumentation as an optical engineer to an aerospace business program manager and strategic development consultant. She was also an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona College of Optical Sciences before co-founding and serving as president of Optical Engineering Associates, LLC.

She had an astonishing and wide-ranging career. Her widower, Dr. Tim Valle, said “Jennifer was a remarkable role-model for anyone entering technical fields. She was an extraordinary and powerful strategic thinker.”

A proud member of several professional societies including the Optical Society of America, SPIE, and the American Geophysical Union, Dr. Turner-Valle made valued contributions to support future leaders in the field. “Jennifer always emphasized the importance of mentoring and supporting the next generation of scientists and engineers,” said Dr. Valle. “The Jennifer Turner-Valle scholarships honor her long-standing dedication to helping others succeed.”

In supporting the Quantum Scholars program, the Jennifer Turner-Valle scholarships provide students the opportunity to engage in and learn about the quantum industry. Honoring Dr. Turner-Valle’s legacy, these scholarships are an inspiration to the students receiving them.

Eva Temelkova, a third-year physics major, recognizes the impact of the Jennifer Turner-Valle scholarship through the support it provides to her. “As a member of the Quantum Scholars program, I feel incredibly supported in my academic journey as well as my journey in exploring physics outside of the classroom,” said Temelkova.

Learning about quantum, exploring opportunities, and making connections have been a highlight according to Mariana Vadas-Arendt, a Jennifer Turner-Valle scholarship recipient and second-year computer science major. She said, “I have interacted with professors and companies that I didn’t believe I had the chance to talk to, but Quantum Scholars made that possible. I now have connections with people and companies that inspire me.”

Justin Loring, a third-year physics major, is appreciative for the support this scholarship provides, and he credits the Quantum Scholars program for growing his interest in quantum technology. “I will continue studying applications of quantum in my graduate program with an eye on advancing our ability to leverage quantum tools to solve practical issues,” said Loring.

“We’re so honored to have scholarships named after Jennifer Turner-Valle, a distinguished alumna of our program.” said Tobin Munsat, professor and chair of physics. “She left an indelible legacy and we’re inspired by her commitment to improving inclusion and access for students in science and engineering.”

The Jennifer Turner-Valle Scholarships will initially be used to support students in the Quantum Scholars program with up to five students per year receiving the named scholarships.

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SPIE commits $100,000 in matching funds to grow Quantum Scholars Program

Anonymous — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 15:09:05 +0000

SPIE commits $100,000 in matching funds to grow Quantum Scholars Program Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 02/22/2024 - 08:09

Kirsten Apodaca

Generous commitment from SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics, supports future growth for CU ��«��Ƶ's Quantum Scholars Program.

The Quantum Scholars Program has received a big boost in the form of a matching gift from SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics. SPIE has committed to matching $100,000 in external gifts to the program over the next two academic years. This generous contribution will provide scholarships for up to 20 additional Quantum Scholars each year.

"SPIE believes strongly in the role optics and photonics will play in the future of quantum technologies and shares CU ��«��Ƶ's vision for building a robust quantum infrastructure by encouraging outstanding young physicists and engineers to enter the field,” says Kent Rochford, CEO of SPIE. “We are thrilled to partner with them on their Quantum Scholars program and hope our matching grant will motivate other donors to support this innovative program."

Currently in its second year, the Quantum Scholars Program was created in 2022 through a collaboration between the Department of Physics and the College of Engineering and Applied Science.

Quantum Scholars supports undergraduates in physics, engineering and computer science with the aim to advance quantum education and workforce development through professional development, co-curricular activities, and industrial engagement. Scholarship support is a key component of the program to recruit and retain students interested in the quantum industry.

Mike Ritzwoller, Professor of Distinction and former Chair of Physics, helped launch Quantum Scholars and currently serves as a faculty advisor to the program along with Professor Noah Finkelstein. Ritzwoller says “Students have responded to the Quantum Scholars program with incredible enthusiasm. This generous SPIE award provides a great opportunity to sustain and scale the Quantum Scholars program, investing in the future of science and engineering, and most importantly the people committed to this future.”

Keith Molenaar, Dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Science, who launched Quantum Scholars with Professor Ritzwoller, says “The Quantum Scholars program is fostering a remarkable community to address the quantum workforce development need.” He adds “We appreciate SPIE’s vision and commitment to this partnership and look forward to expanding the program’s impact.”

A growing demand

Growth in the quantum industry has been extensive in recent years and continues to increase. Additional focus with the recent designation of Colorado as a Quantum Tech Hub has reinforced the critical need for education and training in the quantum field.

Demand for the Quantum Scholars Program is substantial. 50 physics and engineering undergraduates are in the program this year, with approximately half receiving a scholarship. Professor Ritzwoller hopes that with external support the program can be expanded to provide 50 scholarships per year over the next few years. Tobin Munsat, Professor and Chair of Physics, says “We’re so appreciative of SPIE for supporting this terrific program, and helping us to develop the next generation of quantum scientists.”

Expanding program activities

Professional development and industrial engagement activities offered by the Quantum Scholars program include talks from quantum scientists from CU, national labs, and industry as well as tours of national labs and quantum companies. In recent months, leaders from Vescent, IonQ, and Infleqtion have visited the Quantum Scholars to share recent advancements and their perspectives on research, careers, and the quantum industry.

The annual Physics and Quantum Career & Internship Fair extends connections beyond visits to the program to help students explore a career in the quantum industry.

Additional community-building activities have launched from connections made in the program including the Quantum Scholars Quantum Hackathon, which kicked-off in spring 2024. Quantum Scholars Annalise Cabra and Denali Jah have taken on leadership roles in organizing the Quantum Hackathon.

The hackathon spans four weeks with students organized in teams of three or four and paired with a graduate student advisor. Students learn the fundamentals of quantum computing during the first few weeks, then tackle a quantum challenge during the fourth week.

Third-year physics student Annalise Cabra says “Quantum Scholars has been one of my most valuable experiences outside of the classroom. I am eager to see the continued growth of the program, especially during this groundbreaking era of quantum technology development.”

Looking forward

Support for the Quantum Scholars Program enables students to engage in a program that complements the education they receive in the classroom or research lab and propels them as they enter the quantum field in industry or through further education. The generous commitment from SPIE combined with external support will help the program thrive for years to come.

Get involved

Questions about getting involved in the Quantum Scholars Program as a student, industry partner, or supporter can be directed to Professor Mike Ritzwoller.

Contribute to the Quantum Scholars Program

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Three physics students awarded Charles A. Barth scholarships from LASP

Anonymous — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 22:06:13 +0000

Three physics students awarded Charles A. Barth scholarships from LASP Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 10/11/2023 - 16:06

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Have endowment, will travel

Anonymous — Tue, 11 Jul 2017 06:00:00 +0000

Have endowment, will travel Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 07/11/2017 - 00:00

Entrepreneur Jesse Kramer (Physics'78) helps physics students engage with the world through an endowed travel fund to support students presenting research at conferences.

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Physics alum had luck to spare—and family hopes to share

Anonymous — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 06:00:00 +0000

Physics alum had luck to spare—and family hopes to share Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 03/20/2012 - 00:00

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