Quantum Information Science

A future where quantum information science redefines what’s possible

Built on technology entirely distinct from the computers we use every day, quantum information systems can solve complex problems in seconds that today’s best supercomputers would take thousands of years to crack. From the discovery of lifesaving drugs to applications in quantum physics, the possibilities are endless.

The Power and Promise of Quantum Information Science

Central to the university’s Frontiers of Computing Initiative, Quantum Information Science unites distinguished scholars from USC Dornsife in physics, mathematics, chemistry, and the computational sciences with renowned engineering experts at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Together, they address some of the most fundamental—and fundamentally difficult—challenges in realizing the full potential of quantum computing.

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How You Can Help

At USC Dornsife, through forward-looking research and unmatched access to state-of-the-art quantum computing systems, our experts continue to be ahead of the game. Areas of research include quantum advantages for human health, simulations for quantum physics, machine learning techniques to train quantum A.I. learning models, sustainable environmental technology, and much more. Our undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to take part in this work. Any size gift will help us come closer to our goals.

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Help fund specific research quantum initiatives lead by USC faculty in several cutting-edge categories with unlimited potential: sustainable energy materials, drug discover, earthquake prediction & seismic modeling, transportation & supply chain optimization, banking & finance, sustainable agriculture & food production, cybersecurity & cryptography and pollution monitoring & remediation. Contact us for more information about specific initiatives.
The ethical implications of artificial intelligence and other new technologies are a growing concern to citizens and institutions across the globe. USC is committed to developing responsible and ethical leaders in computing, helping prepare society for the challenges posed by new technologies.

USC offers programs on ethical leadership and AI, as well as working with partners in Los Angeles and California to develop effective public policy for new technologies. By preparing our future leaders today, USC is helping to ensure that the ethical implications of new technologies are considered before they are adopted.
Endowed positions make it possible for us to attract, retain and honor the best scholars, ensuring our academic programs remain excellent for generations to come. While the research, scholarship and teaching of the chairholder revolutionizes the way we look at a field of study today, the existence of the chair itself stands as a lasting tribute to the vision of the donor.
Research at USC Dornsife is greatly benefitted by postdoctoral scholars. These individuals have received their doctoral degree and have the knowledge and training to help advance faculty research.
The USC Center for Quantum Information Science & Technology is one of the premier research centers in the country. In addition to access to the IBM fleet of quantum computers, the QIC provides USC researchers with the unique opportunity to enter IBM-led working groups (health, materials, energy, optimization), collaborate with IBM scientists, and co-organize scientific symposia.

The strong research focus of the QIC is closely coupled with education and outreach. Engagement with companies will prepare USC students and postdocs for the needs of the quantum workforce. Conferences and workshops held under the auspices of the QIC will bring together researchers, industrial stakeholders, and the public.
In addition to its groundbreaking quantum research, USC is also training the field’s future pioneers. USC Viterbi offers a Master’s Degree in Quantum Information Science. Degrees in math, physics or chemistry offered by USC Dornsife can lay the important groundwork for those who want to join in on the discoveries.