Quantum Science Colloquium
August 10, 2026
The Southeastern Quantum Collaborative (SQC) was formed officially in January 2026 to promote the increased use and understanding of Quantum Information Science. Quantum science is at the forefront of a technological revolution. It promises advancements in computing, secure communication, and materials science. Quantum computers, for instance, could revolutionize data processing and cryptography, making them more secure and efficient. Advances in Quantum Science and increasing the talent pool in this area is important to the work done in the Southeast region as well as North Alabama. The Collaborative’s intent is to accelerate quantum advancement in the Southeast region through academic, industry, and government collaboration. To this end, the SQC is hosting its inaugural Quantum Science Colloquium on August 10th on the UAH Campus at the Charger Theatre. There is no cost to attend, however, we do ask that you register below so we will have an estimate of attendance and can plan accordingly. We have an exciting group of speakers that will address Quantum Workforce needs and current efforts, Quantum Science R&D, and Government concerns and needs.
Colloquium Details
Agenda
10:30: Welcome remarks by UAH President, Dr. Don Leo, and UAH VP for Research and Economic Development, Dr. Bob Lindquist
10:50: Welcome remarks by Dean Rainer Steinwandt on behalf of the SQC
11:00: Introduction of Keynote Speaker Dr. Whitney Mason, Director of the Multi X Office (MXO) at DARPA
11:05 – 12:15: Keynote Address and 10 minutes for Q&AO
12:15 – 12:45: Break and refreshments
12:45-1:55: Quantum Workforce Panel – Discussion on Industry Needs and Existing Programs
Each speaker has 7-10 minutes followed by approximately 20 minutes for Q&A
- Moderator MajGen (ret) Jim Sears (Oak Ridge Associated Universities)
- ECS – Mr. Mark Maglin
- IonQ – Mr. Lamont Silves
- Middle Tennessee State University – Dr. Hanna Terletska
- Florida Atlantic University – Dr. Luc Wille
- University of Tennessee Chattanooga – Dr. Mina Sartipi
1:55 – 2:15: Break and refreshments
2:15-3:25: Quantum Research & Development Panel – Discussion on Capabilities and Projects
Each speaker has 7-10 minutes followed by approximately 20 minutes for Q&A
- Moderator Mr. Kirk McLemore (EPB Chattanooga)
- Qunnect - Dr. Noel Goddard
- Dwave – Mr. Brian Major
- IBM – Dr. Paul Parazzoli
- University of Alabama – Dr. Sergei Gleyzer
- Vanderbilt University – Dr. Padma Raghavan
3:25 – 3:45: Break and refreshments
3:45 – 4:55: Government Panel – Discussion on Quantum areas of interest and current efforts
Each speaker has 7-10 minutes followed by approximately 20 minutes for Q&A
- Moderator Mr. James Lackey (Davidson Technologies)
- DEVCOM Aviation and Missile Center – TBD
- Space and Missile Defense Command (Center of Excellence) – Dr. Robert Spee
- US Space Command – TBD
- Tennessee Valley Authority – TVA – Mr. KC Carnes
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory – Dr. Shaun Gleason
4:55: Concluding remarks – Dr. Rainer Steinwandt
Venue + Location
Presentations & Panels
Charger Union Theater
4705 Holmes Ave
Huntsville, AL 35899
Parking
Intermodal Facility (IMF), Lot W20, or Lot G17.
Questions?
Please email Ray.Vaughn@uah.edu for additional information.