UT, ORNL Recruit Leading Quantum Scientist Deep Jariwala

Jariwala named UT-ORNL governor's chair for quantum devices, strengthening partnership in cutting-edge materials and computing research.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly structured, geometric abstract painting in soft, earthy tones of green, blue, and gold, featuring sweeping arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals, conveying the complex structural order of quantum forces and computing concepts without any text or symbols.A bold, abstract visual representation of the cutting-edge quantum materials and computing research that will be advanced through the new UT-ORNL partnership.Oak Ridge Today

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have jointly recruited Deep Jariwala, a nationally recognized leader in quantum materials and next-generation electronic devices, as the UT-ORNL governor's chair for quantum devices. Jariwala will hold a joint appointment between UT and ORNL, with his academic home in the Tickle College of Engineering. He joins from the University of Pennsylvania and is widely recognized for his work at the intersection of novel materials, microelectronics and computing systems.

Why it matters

Jariwala's expertise will strengthen ORNL's ongoing work in quantum science and advanced materials, further enhancing the UT-ORNL partnership in this critical area. His research on developing new materials and device architectures for next-generation computing, sensing and optoelectronic systems aligns with national priorities in quantum technologies and advanced computing.

The details

Jariwala plans to advance his work by establishing a materials deposition and characterization laboratory at UT's Institute for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, located at the UT Research Park at Cherokee Farm. The lab will facilitate collaboration among UT, ORNL and industry partners. The recruitment marks a significant step in expanding UT-ORNL's partnership in quantum science and engineering, particularly in quantum devices that bridge materials discovery and computing applications.

  • Jariwala will officially join UT and ORNL in January 2027.
  • The UT-ORNL governor's chair program is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

The players

Deep Jariwala

A nationally recognized leader in quantum materials and next-generation electronic devices, who has been named the UT-ORNL governor's chair for quantum devices.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

A leading research university that has partnered with ORNL to recruit Jariwala and expand their joint capabilities in quantum science and engineering.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

One of the largest Department of Energy national laboratories, with world-class infrastructure for novel materials and computing research, and a long-standing partnership with UT.

University of Tennessee-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute

An institute that manages the UT-ORNL governor's chair program and works to align the strengths of both institutions to advance research and talent development in areas of importance to Tennessee and the nation.

Tickle College of Engineering

The academic home for Jariwala at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, which is nationally ranked.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Governor's Chair program is truly special in its structure. It gives a scholar the rare chance to wear two hats and experience the best of both worlds - academia and a national lab.”

— Deep Jariwala

“Deep Jariwala is one of the top emerging leaders in quantum materials and advanced electronics. Recruiting him to Tennessee reflects the strength of the UT-Oak Ridge partnership and our shared commitment to leading in technologies that will define the future economy.”

— Randy Boyd, President of UT System

“ORNL is at the forefront of quantum science and advanced materials, and Deep's expertise will further strengthen our capabilities in this critical area. His work will heighten collaboration across UT and ORNL and help accelerate progress in quantum research and applications.”

— Stephen Streiffer, ORNL Director

“Recruiting governor's chairs and other preeminent faculty is central to our efforts to elevate the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This appointment strengthens our ability to grow in emerging areas like quantum science while leveraging our partnership with ORNL to create opportunities for students and faculty that no other university can offer.”

— Donde Plowman, Chancellor, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

“Deep's recruitment is a major step in building a world-class, joint UT-ORNL capability in quantum devices. This is exactly the kind of talent that allows us to scale our partnership and accelerate both research and talent development in areas critical to the nation's future.”

— Brynn Voy, Interim Executive Director, University of Tennessee-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute

What’s next

Jariwala plans to establish a materials deposition and characterization laboratory at UT's Institute for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, located at the UT Research Park at Cherokee Farm, to further advance the UT-ORNL partnership in quantum science and engineering.

The takeaway

The recruitment of Deep Jariwala as the UT-ORNL governor's chair for quantum devices represents a significant step in strengthening the longstanding partnership between the University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the critical field of quantum science and advanced materials research. This appointment will help position Tennessee as a national leader in next-generation quantum technologies.