‘Now is the time’ to invest in quantum computing, Clemson University researchers say - Clemson News
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Current News Its potential power is enormous, a force that could be on the cusp of helping crack some of the toughest problems that engineering, medicine, science and industry have to offer.
And Clemson University is playing a key role in ensuring South Carolina will be ready. Quantum computing holds the promise of solving certain types of problems dramatically faster than current technology. For years, it has largely remained experimental and theoretical, a tantalizing possibility mostly confined to the lab.But that’s starting to change, researchers said.While quantum computing isn’t quite ready for widespread use, it is getting closer and could have a major impact in fields ranging from cybersecurity and materials development to advanced manufacturing and logistics, researchers said. The question is no longer if the technology will matter, but who will be ready when it does, researchers said. “The conversation has shifted from what to why and how — why should I care and how could I use it?” said Emily Tucker, an assistant professor of industrial engineering. “Five years ago it was too early, and five years from now it might be too late. Now is the time to start building capacity and talent.” Rong Ge, a professor in the School of Computing, said some problems are growing beyond the reach of even the fastest classical computers. “We always want to do more — more data, more accuracy, more detail — but there comes a point where classical computing just isn’t enough,” Ge said. “That’s where quantum computing has the potential to take things to the next level.” At Clemson, faculty and students are moving quickly to help take quantum computing out of the lab and bring it into the real world. Researchers are working on quantum algorithms, software and hardware. New courses are underway, and a quantum computing minor is in development.It is all aimed at what Clemson does best– building the skilled workforce South Carolina’s industries will need and helping advance cutting-edge technology.Among Clemson’s national leaders in quantum computing is Mashrur “Ronnie” Chowdhury, who works at the vanguard of finding ways to use quantum computing to protect the transportation system and the connected critical infrastructure that underpin cities and regions from emerging cyber threats. It is crucial research, he said, because just as quantum computing can be a force for good, it could also pose a cybersecurity threat.Quantum computers can explore many possibilities simultaneously, potentially making it much easier to break certain types of encryptions, thereby putting sensitive data and user privacy at risk, said Chowdhury, who is the Eugene Douglas Mays Chair of Transportation and a cybersecurity expert. “It would pose a significant risk to our state if we do not invest aggressively in quantum computing,” he said. “We need to cultivate talent because quantum technology is already here and advancing rapidly. If we want to compete not only with other states but globally, we must invest aggressively in quantum computing. We have the full potential to position South Carolina as a leader in quantum computing.” Members of the Clemson Quantum Club play a game of quantum checkers in 2025. The club has grown to about 40 members. Student interest has ratcheted up as well. The student-led Clemson Quantum Club launched last year and has grown to about 40 members. It is applying for University funding and plans to hold its first presidential election this semester.Teams of students from the club are distinguishing themselves in quantum computing hackathons, including MIT iQuHACK. Nathan Jones, the club’s president and a third-year Ph.D. student, likened the atmosphere surrounding quantum computing to the “Wizard of Oz”: students want a peek behind the curtain to see what it’s really all about.“I think that gets a decent amount of students in the door,” Jones said. “Then they learn it’s not what sci-fi makes it out to be, but there are real parts to it, which I think grabs a lot of students and makes them stay.”Joe Queenan, founder of the South Carolina Quantum Association, said the state can take full advantage of the technology by investing in research, talent and collaboration.“Universities like Clemson play a critical role in that process by preparing students, advancing research and working alongside industry to translate emerging ideas into real-world capability,” he said. “That’s how South Carolina ensures it’s not just watching this technology develop, but helping shape what comes next.