Albany State University Partners with IBM on Inaugural HBCU Quantum Education Initiative

ASU’s involvement in this initiative shows the University is continuing to ensure academic excellence and student success through its Golden RAM Guarantee.  

“Albany State University has made tremendous progress of creating opportunities for our STEM students, a field that is rapidly growing. In the past three years, 7.1% of ASU students have graduated with STEM degrees. This partnership with IBM will allow our students to have access to the sophisticated level of technology training and research opportunities associated with Quantum Computing,” said ASU President Marion Ross Fedrick.  

Through the partnership, ASU will have access to IBM’s quantum computers and receive educational support on how to use the Qiskit open-source software development framework. IBM will also offer support and funding for research opportunities, curriculum development, workforce advocacy, and special projects.  

ASU Professor, Dr. John Williams facilitated ASU’s involvement in this initiative. “You may be wondering what quantum computing is and why it’s important. Quantum computing uses sophisticated math principles to increase the power of a computer. This not only increases speed, but also the overall productivity level. This is important for tasks such as encryption or a large-scale project,” said Williams.  

The program’s goals are to create a space to foster interest and a sense of belonging in the field of quantum technology, provide undergraduate and graduate research opportunities, and connect talent to the quantum research community.  

In a press release from IBM’s Chief Global Diversity & Inclusion Officer Carla Grant Pickens says, “We believe that in order to expand opportunity for diverse populations, we need a diverse talent pipeline of the next generation of tech leaders from HBCUs. Diversity and inclusion are what fuel innovation and students from HBCUs will be positioned to play a significant role in what will drive innovations for the future of quantum computing, cloud, and artificial intelligence.” 

Additionally, the program will provide opportunities for scholarships, fellowships, and internships for ASU’s undergraduate and graduate students. 

ASU is one of 13 HBCU’s participating in the program. Participants were chosen because of their research and education focus in physics, engineering, mathematics, computer science, and other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. 

The program will be available to students for the spring 2021 semester.  

IBM’s release can be found here.