Students are getting a unique perspective on the quantum field and industry through a program they themselves are helping to shape. Quantum Scholars, which launched in 2023, is providing community and fellowships to students in physics, engineering, mathematics and computer science. 

How it began

Quantum Scholars was co-founded through a partnership between the Department of Physics and the College of Engineering and Applied Science. Michael Ritzwoller, professor of distinction in physics, and Keith Molenaar, engineering dean, modeled the program on the successful Kiewit Design-Build Scholars program in engineering with a focus on getting students engaged in the quantum field. 

“The concept of Quantum Scholars is Dean Molenaar's insight,” said Ritzwoller. “He brought the idea to physics and we have worked together to define and then refine the program for the benefit of the students.” 

Quantum Scholars advances education and workforce development through professional development, co-curricular activities and industry engagement.  

The program has drawn interest from students from all backgrounds in a variety of fields including engineering, physics, mathematics and computer science.  

Annalise Cabra, a senior physics major, said one of the best aspects of Quantum Scholars is how it brings together interdisciplinary students. “I’m constantly interacting with peers from various backgrounds and hearing their different perspectives,” said Cabra.  

Exploring quantum as a community 

Interest in exploring the rapidly growing and changing fields of quantum sciences and engineering, coupled with the opportunity to join a budding community, are two common reasons students apply for Quantum Scholars. 

 

Seniors in the Quantum Scholars program at the end of year meeting.

Luke Coffman, a senior physics and math major, got an early start in quantum information research as a first-year student but admits he didn’t know much about the industry at the time. And he hadn’t met many other students interested in quantum beyond his research group. 

“I joined the program for two main reasons: to learn more about quantum science and find a community,” said Coffman.  

Several students recalled Professor Noah Finkelstein promoting the new program in their spring 2023 modern physics class.  

“It sounded like an invaluable opportunity to explore how quantum concepts are applied in the workforce while also supporting my professional development,” said Cabra. 

Aqua Chung was a first-year student in Finkelstein’s class. He remembered thinking it would be a great opportunity to network and broaden his understanding of the quantum industry. And it did.  

Through Quantum Scholars, Chung met fellow physics major Luke Coffman who helped connect him to a research opportunity with Xun Gao, an assistant professor of physics and associate fellow of JILA.  

Quantum Scholars has also been a draw for prospective students considering CU Boulder.  

“We’ve had several students reach out and ask how they can be part of the program as early as their first semester at CU,” said Finkelstein. “It is clear CU Boulder is on the map for quantum sciences and engineering, and Quantum Scholars helps us realize our promise for educating the next generation in these fields.” 

Students leading the way 

One of the unique features of Quantum Scholars is that the scholars themselves are encouraged to guide and shape the future of the program. With leadership from co-directors Ritzwoller and Finkelstein, and graduate student Sasha Novack, students feel a sense of ownership. 

 

Annalise Cabra and Emily Jerris presenting at the December 2024 Quantum Scholars meeting.

“Professors Finkelstein and Ritzwoller are genuinely great people who support and guide us, whether with small goals like running the research expo or long-term goals like graduate school or connecting us with opportunities,” said Chung.  

This year, Quantum Scholars have been involved in leading and designing the quantum hackathon, hosting an undergraduate research expo and launching the CU Women of Quantum group. These initiatives have collectively supported hundreds of students across campus. 

Cabra, who helped organize the first quantum hackathon and co-founded the Women of Quantum group with Emily Jerris, said “these experiences have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth—strengthening my leadership, communication skills, and confidence to turn ideas into reality.” 

“We are so proud of these accomplished students, and grateful to partner with them, campus leaders, alumni and local industry to build a program with and for these students,” said Finkelstein. 

Gaining industry perspective 

Students in the program are getting an up-close look at the quantum industry through guest speakers and tours of local companies and institutes.  

New this year, the program is increasing support for internships and early career job placements with a new team member, thanks to support from the deans of the College of Engineering and Applied Science and the College of Arts & Sciences. Andrew North now serves as assistant director of engineering & quantum employer relations. North is developing relationships with local industry and national labs to support the Quantum Scholars as they explore and engage in life beyond the university. 

Elevate Quantum, the regional consortium and designated quantum Tech Hub, aims to create more than 10,000 new quantum jobs in the region by 2030. The Boulder Chamber Economic Council estimates there are approximately “54 quantum-related companies operating in Boulder and along the U.S. 36 corridor.” Preparing students for these opportunities and building connections to industry are key components of the Quantum Scholars program. 

“This community has opened doors to one-on-one discussions with professionals in fields I see myself pursuing after college,” said Ashlee Snider, a first-year engineering physics student. 

Chung added, a highlight for him was getting to talk one-on-one with CEO and co-founder of Vescent, Scott Davis.  

Connections go beyond those looking to work directly in the industry. 

Megan Finnigan (EngrPhys, MechEng’24), who was in Quantum Scholars for a year leading up to graduation, said it was “interesting to hear from industry coming at physics from such a different lens.” She’s currently pursuing a master’s in technology and policy at MIT and said she’s now seeing quantum through a different lens in how it relates to policy making.

Cabra is pursuing a PhD in aerospace engineering and though her path doesn’t directly involve quantum science, she sees how it could play a role and hopes to work in industry one day. “The program has helped me uncover meaningful connections between quantum and aerospace––such as quantum experiments on the ISS and the role of quantum principles in satellite technology and frequency measurements like GPS,” said Cabra. 

Expanding sponsored fellowships 

Students receive a fellowship of up to $2,500 for participation in the program. Funding for student fellowships is generously provided by alumni, industry and external partners.

“The Quantum Scholars program exists because of the confluence of passionate interest from students in the field of quantum and generosity from donors, who are genuinely interested in the development, success and welfare of the students. Without both, the program could not thrive,” said Ritzwoller.  

Student interest in the program has continually outpaced the number of fellowships available. 

In its first year Quantum Scholars started with a group of 53 students – but only 21 of those received fellowships. Now at the end of the program’s third year, almost 90 students are participating in the program, with 58 students receiving funding.  

The fellowships provide much needed financial support for the scholars, often enabling them to pursue research or academic interests more fully. 

“As long as there is interest, we will continue to grow this program that will help shape the future of quantum for our campus, communities, and nation,” said Finkelstein. 

Questions about getting involved in the Quantum Scholars Program as a student, industry partner, or supporter can be directed to Professors Michael Ritzwoller or Noah Finkelstein.