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Clemson University News

A new global technology frontier will change how we solve the world's most complicated challenges. Scientists at Clemson University warn that the opportunity to get a competitive edge is running out and that quantum computing is real.

According to Clemson specialists, quantum computing has “enormous” potential to address challenges in research, engineering, industry, and medicine that conventional machines cannot. As lab breakthroughs enter the real world, Clemson University is training South Carolina to compete.

Critical Opportunity Window

Quantum computing was primarily a specialty lab concept. However, scholars note that the focus has shifted from intellectual “what” to practical “why” and “how”.

The timing of current investments is essential, says Clemson assistant professor of industrial engineering Emily Tucker. “Five years ago it was too early, and five years from now it might be too late,” Tucker said. “Now is the time to build capacity and talent”.

This urgency is caused by classical computing, which powers smartphones and supercomputers, approaching its computational and physical limits. Professor Rong Ge from the School of Computing says even the fastest classical computers can't tackle many modern difficulties that need processing massive amounts of data with exceptional precision and detail. Ge claimed classical computing isn't enough at some point. Quantum computing can push this forward.

IT Security and Infrastructure

Quantum computing has a major impact on cybersecurity. Since quantum computers may analyze numerous choices at simultaneously, they can overcome global encryption methods used to protect sensitive data and user privacy.

Mashrur “Ronnie” Chowdhury, Eugene Douglas Mays Chair of Transportation, is a leading cybersecurity expert. His research focuses on using quantum computing to protect transportation networks and modern cities' interconnected key infrastructure.

Chowdhury believes significant investment boosts regional security and innovation. Since quantum computing is evolving rapidly internationally, he said, “If we do not invest aggressively in quantum computing, it would pose a significant risk to a state.” He believes South Carolina has the “full potential” to become a global leader if it develops the necessary talent now.

Developing Future Experts

Clemson is adopting these ideas into its core curriculum as quickly as possible to meet "quantum era" needs. University is launching a quantum computing minor and adding courses to get the technology out of the lab and into future workers' hands.

Students are thrilled. The Clemson Quantum Club has attracted 40 students since its founding last year. The club played “quantum checkers” in 2025 to visualize complex ideas.

Nathan Jones, club president and third-year Ph.D. student, called the field a “peek behind the curtain.” Jones says the “real parts” of science keep kids motivated, even though many are first drawn to the technology's science-fiction aura. Kids are already showing their skills by excelling in hackathons like MIT iQuHACK.

A Statewide Innovation Ecosystem

Quantum readiness is part of Clemson's innovative culture. Chemists developing dual-conductive materials to improve lithium-ion batteries and graduate students winning data visualization prizes are noteworthy academic advances.

Joe Queenan, founder of the South Carolina Quantum Association, emphasizes the need for industry-research university cooperation to properly profit from quantum technologies. Queenan said universities like Clemson prepare students, advance research, and engage with industry to turn ideas into reality. With this cooperative approach, the state is “not just watching this technology develop, but helping shape what comes next”.

To conclude

Quantum computing is expected to impact advanced manufacturing, materials development, logistics, and health when it becomes mainstream. Clemson and South Carolina want to supply answers, not just consume them.