Fermilab and NIU Launch Joint Quantum Science Master's Program
Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) and Northern Illinois University (NIU) have officially partnered to launch a specialized Master of Science in Physics program focusing on quantum science and technology. The collaboration was formalized through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement signed on April 29, 2026, by Fermilab Director Norbert Holtkamp and NIU Vice President Richard Mocarski. Scheduled to begin in the fall semester of 2026, the program aims to prepare the next generation of quantum experts by combining academic coursework at NIU with hands-on research experience at Fermilab’s Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems (SQMS) Center. Students will start their research activities at the SQMS Center in summer 2027, leveraging the facilities of one of the five DOE quantum information science research centers. This initiative represents a significant expansion of the long-standing relationship between the state university and the national laboratory, offering students direct access to advanced tools for manipulating quantum mechanics features like superposition and entanglement. The curriculum was jointly developed by experts from both institutions to ensure students acquire tangible skills aligned with current scientific goals.
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Fermilab and NIU Launch Joint Quantum Science Master's Program
Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) and Northern Illinois University (NIU) have officially partnered to launch a specialized Master of Science in Physics program focusing on quantum science and technology. The collaboration was formalized through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement signed on April 29, 2026, by Fermilab Director Norbert Holtkamp and NIU Vice President Richard Mocarski. Scheduled to begin in the fall semester of 2026, the program aims to prepare the next generation of quantum experts by combining academic coursework at NIU with hands-on research experience at Fermilab’s Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems (SQMS) Center. Students will start their research activities at the SQMS Center in summer 2027, leveraging the facilities of one of the five DOE quantum information science research centers. This initiative represents a significant expansion of the long-standing relationship between the state university and the national laboratory, offering students direct access to advanced tools for manipulating quantum mechanics features like superposition and entanglement. The curriculum was jointly developed by experts from both institutions to ensure students acquire tangible skills aligned with current scientific goals.
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