Tennessee Tech establishing a regional quantum communications platform between Cookeville and Crossville aimed at developing secure next-generation networks.
Cybersecurity Education, Research and Outreach Center Director Muhammad Ismail said the infrastructure will allow researchers to conduct quantum communications research across geographically separated locations. A $2.1 million federal award will fund the project.
“This award represents an important milestone in Tennessee Tech’s long-term vision for quantum information science,” Ismail said. “Over the past several years, we have made strategic investments in research, education, and workforce development across quantum communications, networking, computing, sensing and post-quantum cryptography.”
The Cookeville-Crossville network will give faculty and students access to a regional testbed rather than confining research to a single laboratory. The project will incorporate equipment capable of generating entangled photon pairs and stabilizing quantum signals.
College of Engineering Dean Joseph Slater said engineers and computer scientists will play a key role in moving quantum research toward practical applications.
“Our faculty and students aren’t just studying the possibilities of quantum information science; they’re developing the systems and infrastructure needed to make those possibilities practical,” Slater said.
The project will also combine Tennessee Tech’s high-performance computing and networking expertise with quantum communications research. Advanced Scalable Computing, Extreme Networks & Data Center Director Anthony Skjellum said the regional infrastructure will allow researchers to examine challenges that emerge outside controlled laboratory environments.
“By bringing these areas of expertise together, we can investigate some of the complex challenges that must be addressed as quantum networks advance toward wider deployment,” Skjellum said.
Associate Vice President for Research and Economic Development Michael Aikens said Tennessee Tech has provided quantum training to more than 50 students during the past two years. The university expects the new infrastructure to create additional opportunities for research and partnerships.
“By bringing emerging quantum technologies to the Upper Cumberland, Tennessee Tech is strengthening the region’s capacity for research, industry collaboration and innovation,” Aikens said. “This testbed can help build connections between university research and the technology development and workforce needs that will shape Tennessee’s future economy.”
The project is scheduled for completion in September 2028. The National Institute of Standards and Technology funded the project.