Building the Quantum Workforce of Tomorrow

The University of Oregon has launched a hands-on Quantum and Nanotechnology track within its Applied Physics Master’s Program to help address the quantum industry’s growing demand for experimentally trained professionals beyond the traditional PhD pathway. The program emphasizes practical experience with research-grade quantum hardware, including a dilution refrigerator, while training students in cryogenics, RF systems, optical technologies, nanofabrication, and quantum measurement techniques. Early graduates have secured internships and full-time roles at organizations including Rigetti Computing, the Air Force Research Laboratory, Bluefors, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, CEA, and National Taiwan University. Quantum technology is a rapidly growing field, with advanced solutions being developed in quantum computing, sensing, and communication moving from research labs to real-world applications. As the quantum industry scales, one of the key bottlenecks it faces is a shortage of people with the hands-on experimental skills needed to build, operate, and maintain quantum hardware. The University of Oregon is tackling this talent shortage head on, with a newly launched Quantum…