Virginia Tech hires quantum algorithms expert Jiaqi Leng

Jiaqi Leng will join the Virginia Tech Institute for Advanced Computing as an assistant professor of computer science in fall 2026. Leng’s research develops efficient quantum algorithms and software for optimization, machine learning, and scientific computing, work recognized by publications in venues including Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and the Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems. “His innovative research in quantum algorithms and optimization strengthens our expertise in computing,” said Kirk Cameron, managing director for Advanced Computing. Leng earned his B.S. in mathematics from the University of Hong Kong before completing his doctoral studies at the University of Maryland.

Jiaqi Leng Appointed Assistant Professor at Virginia Tech IAC Leng transitions from postdoctoral work at both the Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing and the Mathematics Department at the University of California, Berkeley, indicating a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied computational mathematics. He refined his expertise by earning a Ph. D.

At Virginia Tech, Leng intends to focus on bridging the gap between theoretical quantum algorithms and their practical implementation on existing hardware, specifically through projects like Quantum Hamiltonian Descent (QHD) and its software platform, QHDOPT. As an affiliate of the IAC’s Center for Quantum Architecture and Software Development, Leng will also collaborate on Quantum Information Science and Engineering, leveraging expertise across the Colleges of Engineering and Science at Virginia Tech. This interconnectedness underscores the university’s investment in quantum technologies and its commitment to fostering interdisciplinary research. His innovative research in quantum algorithms and optimization strengthens our expertise in next-generation computing and will create new opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world impact. Source: https://news.vt.edu/articles/2026/08/quantum-computing-researcher-joins-institute-for-advanced-computing.html Stay currentSee today’s quantum computing news on Quantum Zeitgeist for the latest breakthroughs in qubits, hardware, algorithms, and industry deals. Tags: The Neuron With a keen intuition for emerging technologies, The Neuron brings over 5 years of deep expertise to the AI conversation. Coming from roots in software engineering, they've witnessed firsthand the transformation from traditional computing paradigms to today's ML-powered landscape. Their hands-on experience implementing neural networks and deep learning systems for Fortune 500 companies has provided unique insights that few tech writers possess. From developing recommendation engines that drive billions in revenue to optimizing computer vision systems for manufacturing giants, The Neuron doesn't just write about machine learning—they've shaped its real-world applications across industries. Having built real systems that are used across the globe by millions of users, that deep technological bases helps me write about the technologies of the future and current. Whether that is AI or Quantum Computing. Latest Posts by The Neuron: Neuromorphic Labs builds a ‘trust layer’ for business AI August 13, 2026 AI will run experiments remotely in new Caltech lab August 13, 2026 AI simulates physics with 60% less data, MIT says August 13, 2026