Quantum Research Interdisciplinary Science and Education (QRISE) Center

Advancing Quantum Innovation that Empowers the Future

Middle Tennessee State University’s QRISE is a world-class hub for advancing quantum discovery, innovation, education, workforce, and economic development. QRISE is dedicated to driving breakthroughs that will shape the next generation of technology and transform how we understand and harness the quantum world.

Through pioneering research, collaborative partnerships, and hands-on learning, QRISE prepares students to become leaders in the rapidly evolving quantum world and prepares them for the careers of the future. The center serves as a catalyst for innovation by connecting academia, industry, and government to strengthen Tennessee’s role in the national quantum ecosystem, expand economic opportunity positioning MTSU as the driving force of scientific and technological progress.

About Research and Funding

QRISE’s research spans quantum materials and devices, AI-accelerated and quantum-assisted simulation for faster materials discovery, and quantum photonics, including squeezed-light/entangled-photon sources, on-chip quantum sensors, and light–matter interaction studies for emerging communication and sensing platforms. These efforts are supported by NSF (National Science Foundation) and DOE (Department of Energy) awards and carried out with collaborators at ORNL (Oak Ridge National Laboratory) regional industry partners, giving students hands-on experience through MTSU’s QRISE curriculum, research placements, and outreach. By connecting faculty in physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, and engineering with government and industry, QRISE turns cutting-edge science into practical tools and prepares students for high-demand careers in the rapidly evolving quantum economy.