Timeline and Program Components
The Quantum UP! Challenge is a series of educational events and offers participating students with a foundational understanding of quantum technologies and their applications. Using both this new knowledge, and their previous training and backgrounds in the areas of business, law, and social sciences, participants will be challenged to analyze opportunities and provide recommendations about the best way to leverage quantum technologies for Connecticut’s future.
Quantum technologies hold the potential to create major disruptions in industries and society. It is imperative that we consider potential implications – not just on the technical side, but legally, ethically, socially, and philosophically.
Soon, Quantum UP! student teams will engage with these topics through real-world industry challenges. As with any social response to rapid acceleration of advanced technologies, having a foundational understanding of the technology itself is vital.
Phase 1
Quantum Education Events
September 24-October 8
A series of educational events – hosted both in-person and virtually that will present the basic concepts of quantum physics that are being used to develop significant advancements in computing, sensing, encryption, and materials science.
The panel sessions will expose students and interested members of our public to how industry leaders are thinking about quantum technologies – both the opportunities and the challenges.
The lectures will cover basic quantum concepts, which will help frame the presented challenge problems and provide you with a level of awareness and preparedness to take on the coming wave of transformation.
September 24, 4:00-6:00 p.m. (Storrs & live streamed)
What are Quantum Technologies?
September 26, 4:00-5:00 p.m. (in-person)
The Ethics of Quantum
Southern Connecticut State University
Engleman Hall – Room A120
385 Fitch Street, New Haven
October 1, 4:00-6:00 p.m. (live stream)
Panel: Quantum Applications in Industry
October 8, 4:00-6:00 p.m. (live stream)
What are Quantum Technologies?
October 15, 4:00-6:00 p.m. (live stream)
Panel: Quantum Ethics & Regulation
October 22, 4:00-6:00 p.m. (West Haven & live streamed)
What are Quantum Technologies?
University of New Haven
Bergami Center for Science and Technology
307 Peterson Auditorium
300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT
Phase 2
Team Formation
October 2-October 14
Students will be encouraged to apply to participate through representatives at their schools, and matched with others who have complementary skillsets with the goal of developing cross-functional teams with diverse perspectives.
- Apply as individuals or in teams.
- Applications will be released on October 2.
Phase 3
Challenges Issued and Professional Mentorship
October 16-October 18
The Quantum UP! Challenge team, along with sponsoring partners will reveal the challenges available for teams to tackle, and the mentors available to help guide and coach them during the process. Expert Insights panels on each Challenge Theme will also be presented to help students focus in areas most relevant to Challenge Sponsors.
Phase 4
Final Presentations and Celebration of Success
November 1
Students will gather at the UConn School of Business in downtown Hartford to present their analysis and recommendations to Challenge Sponsors. A celebration of student success and networking opportunities will follow.