January 29, 2026
As this work has taken shape, South Carolina has focused on building awareness, understanding, and readiness around Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST). That focus was intentional. Before meaningful progress could take hold, the state needed shared language, informed partners, and aligned institutions.
That phase is now complete.
SC Quantum has completed its role as a convening organization. Its work continues through the projects and partnerships it helped bring together. What comes next reflects a deliberate shift from advocacy to action, and from preparation to execution.
In 2026, that shift is taking form through two major project initiatives anchored at South Carolina’s research universities, along with new residency programs designed to strengthen applied research and collaboration, and long-term capacity in quantum technologies.
Project: Applied Quantum for Space and Energy
University of South Carolina
The Swearingen Engineering Center, part of the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing at the University of South Carolina.
One of the first major initiatives underway is anchored at the University of South Carolina within the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing. Known as the Applied Quantum for Space and Energy Lab (AQSEL), this effort focuses on establishing coordinated expertise and applied research capacity at the intersection of quantum sensing, energy systems, and complex infrastructure.
AQSEL brings together faculty, researchers, and students to align existing strengths around clearly defined research priorities. The emphasis is on applying emerging quantum methods to real-world challenges where improved sensing, system awareness, and optimization can matter.
Key areas of focus include:
- Quantum sensing approaches relevant to energy systems and infrastructure monitoring
- Applied research connecting quantum methods to space- and energy-related challenges
- Interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, computing, and physical sciences
- Workforce development through hands-on research and training opportunities
The work is intentionally focused on application. Progress is measured through practical relevance, integration with existing technologies, and the ability to test and refine methods over time.
AQSEL represents a concrete step in South Carolina’s shift from quantum exploration to execution. It establishes a foundation for applied research, talent development, and long-term collaboration, with a clear focus on usefulness and real-world impact.
Project: Applied Quantum Research and Workforce Development
Clemson University
McAdams Hall at Clemson University, home to the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences, where applied engineering and computing research support emerging quantum initiatives.
At Clemson University, quantum efforts are taking shape through a coordinated set of applied research and workforce initiatives, spanning computation, industry-driven applications, and cybersecurity. Together, these efforts emphasize practical relevance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of talent prepared to work at the intersection of quantum computing, high-performance computing, and real-world systems.
Advancing Quantum Readiness and Innovation for Industry (AQRII)
AQRII focuses on advancing hybrid quantum and high-performance computing approaches for industry-relevant applications. The work brings together expertise in quantum algorithms, optimization, machine learning, and eigensolvers, with an emphasis on integration and benchmarking in applied settings.
Scalable High-Performance and Quantum Computing Systems Lab (ScaLab)
ScaLab focuses on advancing quantum software by applying physics-informed machine learning to how quantum programs are created, compiled, and optimized for real hardware. In parallel, the effort places strong emphasis on student engagement and statewide collaboration.
South Carolina Quantum Sentinel (SC-Q-Sentinel)
SC-Q-Sentinel applies quantum-enhanced AI approaches to cybersecurity challenges tied to smart cities and connected infrastructure. The project combines applied research with workforce development and community-level pilots.
Taken together, these Clemson initiatives represent a sustained commitment to applied quantum research and workforce development. They demonstrate how multiple, well-defined efforts can advance practical outcomes, strengthen talent pipelines, and position South Carolina as a destination for long-term impact as quantum technologies continue to mature.
Visiting Scholars Program
University of South Carolina
In addition to the applied research initiatives underway at South Carolina’s universities, university residencies have been established at the University of South Carolina to support advanced work in quantum science and technology.
These residencies bring highly experienced technical experts into sustained engagement with the university system, contributing to research, education, and program development in quantum information science.
Shaped by decades of work in complex, high-stakes technical environments, the residents add perspective and leadership that complement ongoing academic efforts while supporting specialized research, collaboration with faculty and students, and contributions to educational programs.
The focus of the residency work is on applied impact, knowledge transfer, and long-term capacity building, strengthening South Carolina’s growing quantum ecosystem through durable engagement rather than short-term outcomes.
A Deliberate Step Forward
This transition did not happen overnight. It reflects careful study, coordination, and relationship-building across the state. Centering this work around focused, project-driven efforts reflects a clear conclusion about how South Carolina can best advance quantum progress and become a dynamic, competitive quantum destination.
The work ahead is ambitious, but it is grounded. These projects are not endpoints. They are starting points for sustained exploration, applied learning, and the continued development of a quantum ecosystem that supports education, workforce growth, and real-world quantum utility.
South Carolina set the conditions. Now, the work continues through action.
Dave Alsobrooks