By WMBD TV
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WMBD) — Illinois Wesleyan University announced a new, first-of-its-kind program, focusing on interdisciplinary quantum science studies.
The Fisher Quantum Center was funded by a $3.5 million donation from Ann and Alan Fisher who are alumni of the university.
The program will bring undergraduate students from multiple programs on campus to study quantum sciences.
“We’re reimagining and redefining a quantum concentration with a liberal arts foundation, bringing together knowledge across a broad range of disciplines,” said John Miles, provost and Dean of Faculty at the university. “Integrating physics, chemistry, computer science, mathematics and engineering with perspectives from business and philosophy.”
“Our quantum program leverages what we already do so well at Illinois Wesleyan University.”
Quantum science studies how matter and energy behave in small-scale environments. Quantum can be used to create new and more powerful technologies, and be applied to many other real world situtation to solve problems.
“Illinois Wesleyan is reshaping how universities approach the field of quantum science and engineering to better build the talent pipeline for the emerging quantum economy,” said Sheahon Zenger, the university’s president.
“Quantum has the potential to transform industries ranging from computing and cybersecurity, health care, finance, logistics, energy and agriculture.”
Quantum is an emerging field, growing larger every day. The university feels that taking the step to create this one-of-a-kind program will allow more undergraduate students to step into the field, feeling prepared.
It may seem odd that a private, liberal arts college is starting a program like this, but that is exactly what the university is all about.
“The idea of our small, private liberal arts college staking a claim in the field of quantum science is not a sudden pivot,” Zenger said. “Using a foundation in the liberal arts to better prepare students for a rapidly evolving future is what we’ve done here for 175 years.”
“Other schools silo quantum studies into single departments focused on the sciences. No one else is making it accessible to so many students across any field of study.”
The Fisher Quantum Center will be housed in the current Center for Natural Sciences building, and this September, it will grow into the new Pertick Idea Center. While those buildings may be its home, the program will find itself in other buildings due to the interdisciplinary nature of the program.
WMBD TV was first to report on this story. You can read the original story online at CIProud.com.
