UNF: Quantum Initiative

The UNF Quantum Initiative fosters a collaborative ecosystem that bridges quantum science, computing, engineering, cybersecurity and data analytics to generate new knowledge, cultivate a highly skilled workforce and translate emerging quantum technologies into meaningful societal and economic impact for Florida and the nation.

Soaring Into Success with the UNF Quantum Initiative

The UNF Quantum Initiative was established in Fall of 2025 and received competitive funding from the UNF Foundation to formally launch their efforts in 2026.

Initiative Goals

The UNF Quantum Initiative will advance quantum research, education and workforce development by creating a collaborative community of faculty, students, industry and government partners. Through distinguished speakers, hands-on learning opportunities, participation in statewide quantum activities and strategic partnerships, the initiative will expand student engagement in quantum-related STEM fields, foster multidisciplinary research collaboration, strengthen UNF's role within Florida's quantum ecosystem and build a foundation for future funding, internships, workforce development and interdisciplinary quantum programs.

Quantum Research

UNF researchers are exploring the quantum frontier from atoms to algorithms. Our faculty investigate quantum materials, superconducting and photonic devices, quantum information and computing, advanced nanotechnologies and the fundamental physics that will drive future breakthroughs in computing, communications, sensing and cybersecurity. Through this interdisciplinary expertise, the UNF Quantum Initiative connects discovery, education and workforce development to help shape the next generation of quantum technologies.

Female student working on a piece of physics machinery in a lab

International Conference on Quantum Materials and Technologies

The UNF Quantum Initiative is partnering with the UNF Department of Physics and Astronomy, the University of Connecticut, and the Nordic Institute for Theoretical Physics to organize the annual international conference on quantum materials and technologies. The conference is scheduled to be held on the UNF campus in December 2026. To date, Jacksonville has hosted seven annual quantum conferences, demonstrating the region’s growing influence in shaping the future of quantum science, technology, and workforce development.

The People Behind UNF Quantum

The UNF Quantum Initiative brings together experts in quantum materials, quantum information science, photonics, superconducting devices, advanced computing and fundamental physics to drive discovery, prepare a quantum-ready workforce and accelerate innovation across Florida's emerging quantum ecosystem.

Paula Mariel Coelho Neto (Initiative Lead) investigates 2D quantum materials, using scanning tunneling microscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to understand how atomic-scale defects and dopants influence magnetic and electronic properties. Read Paula's bio.
Jason Haraldsen conducts theoretical and computational quantum materials research, applying density functional theory and condensed matter physics to study the electronic and magnetic behavior of emerging materials. Read Jason's bio and learn more about physics research at UNF.
Chris Kelso contributes expertise in particle physics, helping connect foundational quantum principles with broader scientific discovery.
Zornitza Prodanoff focuses on quantum computing and quantum information theory, with interests spanning quantum machine learning, quantum system performance, and cybersecurity. Her work combines theoretical inquiry with practical evaluation to advance the understanding and development of quantum computing systems and architectures. Read Zornitza's bio.
Daniel Santavicca develops superconducting quantum devices, single-photon detectors, superconducting electronics, and nanoscale fabrication technologies, research areas that underpin quantum sensing, communications, and information processing. Read Daniel's bio and learn more about physics research at UNF.
Maitri Warusawithana studies quantum materials, strongly correlated electronic systems, superconductivity, spin-based devices, and quantum phenomena in engineered thin films and interfaces, using molecular beam epitaxy to create atomically precise materials for future quantum applications. Read Mitri's bio and learn more about physics research at UNF.
Gregory Wurtz specializes in nanophotonics, nano-optics, plasmonics, metamaterials, and nonlinear optics, exploring how light interacts with matter at the nanoscale to enable next-generation photonic and quantum technologies. Read Gregory's bio and learn more about physics research at UNF.