Columbus Emerges as Quantum Tech Leader on World Quantum Day

Ohio State University's quantum research and education programs are driving innovation and workforce development in central Ohio.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:09pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly structured abstract painting in earthy tones of green, blue, and ochre, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals, conveying the complex and interconnected nature of quantum mechanics and information theory.Ohio State's quantum research is shaping the future of computing, communications and cybersecurity, positioning Columbus as a national leader in this transformative field.Columbus Today

World Quantum Day, an annual global observance to spotlight the future of quantum computing, communications and cybersecurity, highlights the work that has made Ohio State University a major player in quantum research and central Ohio a growing hub for next-generation technology. Ohio State's Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering is at the forefront of this effort, advancing work in quantum computing, sensing, networking and secure communications.

Why it matters

Quantum physics is poised to reshape industries from medicine to national security, and Ohio is positioning itself as a leader in this transformative field. The work at Ohio State could have major implications for protecting critical infrastructure, financial systems and healthcare networks through quantum-secure communications.

The details

Ohio State has demonstrated the first quantum key distribution link on its campus, using in-ground optical fiber to create ultra-secure communications pathways. Researchers are also working on Ohio's first intercity quantum-secure network between Columbus and Dayton. The university has also launched one of the nation's first stand-alone graduate programs in quantum information science and engineering to build a workforce pipeline for Ohio's growing technology economy.

  • World Quantum Day is observed each year on April 14, a nod to the first three digits of Planck's constant.
  • Ohio State recently demonstrated the first quantum key distribution link on its campus.
  • Ohio State is working on the state's first intercity quantum-secure network between Columbus and Dayton.

The players

Ezekiel Johnston-Halperin

A physics professor and co-leader of Ohio State's Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering.

Ronald M. Reano

A professor of electrical and computer engineering and co-leader of Ohio State's Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering.

Ohio State University

A major research institution that has become a leader in quantum research and education, driving innovation and workforce development in central Ohio.

Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering (CQISE)

An interdisciplinary research center at Ohio State University that brings together experts across physics, chemistry, mathematics and engineering to advance work in quantum computing, sensing, networking and secure communications.

Columbus State Community College

A community college partner working with Ohio State on quantum education and workforce development initiatives.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The name uses the word 'information' the same way we use the word in 'information technology.' What the field is discovering is that there's a second quantum revolution about how quantum mechanics can fundamentally affect those areas of information technology.”

— Ezekiel Johnston-Halperin, Physics Professor, Ohio State University

“One of the cool things about quantum key distribution is it is using the quantum properties of light to detect the presence of an eavesdropper in near real time.”

— Ronald M. Reano, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Ohio State University

What’s next

Ohio State plans to continue expanding its quantum research and education programs, including the development of the state's first intercity quantum-secure network between Columbus and Dayton.

The takeaway

Columbus is emerging as a national leader in quantum technology, driven by Ohio State University's cutting-edge research and education initiatives. This work has the potential to transform industries, strengthen cybersecurity, and create a new generation of quantum-skilled workers in Ohio.