Building the Quantum Future
The WNE Center for Quantum Hardware Development is Western New England University’s cornerstone facility for advancing research, education, and workforce development in quantum technology. Based in Springfield, Massachusetts, the lab positions WNE students and faculty at the center of one of the fastest-growing fields of the 21st century.
Our goal is to help companies validate products, shorten development cycles, and strengthen the Massachusetts quantum supply chain.
Next-Generation Facilities
At the heart of the lab is a 20 milliKelvin (mK) cryogenic refrigerator, a powerful testbed for developing superconducting quantum hardware. This system allows researchers to perform precision measurements at temperatures colder than outer space, enabling breakthroughs in device validation, cryogenic radio frequency (RF) systems, and quantum component design.
Student Impact
Students in the College of Engineering gain direct experience in quantum systems through hands-on labs, internships, and collaborative projects. They learn to:
- Operate cryogenic and vacuum systems
- Align lasers and work with photonics devices
- Conduct RF/microwave engineering and low-noise measurements
- Analyze and test prototype quantum components
Through these experiences, WNE students earn credentials that prepare them for roles in quantum computing, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and beyond.
WNE College of Engineering Innovation Hubs
WNE’s College of Engineering is home to three innovation hubs—the Center for Quantum Hardware Development, LEAP@WNE Integrated Photonics and Optics Laboratory, Center for Advanced Manufacturing —advancing research, education, and industry partnerships in next-generation technologies.
A Statewide Network: EQUIP
The lab is a key site in EQUIP (A Collaborative Network for Quantum Hardware), a Massachusetts initiative linking WNE with UMass Boston, Harvard, MIT, and industry partners. Together, EQUIP expands opportunities for students and companies across the Commonwealth while strengthening regional supply chains and positioning Massachusetts as a leader in the quantum era.
Industry Collaboration
For companies, the WNE Quantum Systems Laboratory provides access to specialized infrastructure that few organizations can build on their own. Industry partners use the facility to:
- Validate quantum components in operational conditions
- Accelerate time-to-market with reduced R&D risk
- Collaborate with WNE faculty experts and student innovators
- Apply for EQUIP’s Quantum Jumpstart seed grants and facility access programs
Faculty Expertise
WNE’s lab is led by faculty with deep expertise in systems engineering, photonics, and digital signal processing:
- Dr. John Burke
RF & Systems - Dr. Stephen Adamshick
Photonics, RF - Dr. Neeraj Magotra
DSP, Engineering Education & Partnerships - Thomas Searles
Research Associate
Why It Matters
Technologies from the first “quantum revolution”—lasers, GPS, MRI, and semiconductors—power nearly every device we use today. The second revolution is here, and WNE students and faculty are helping to lead it. Through the WNE Quantum Systems Laboratory, our Golden Bears are not just preparing for the future of quantum—they’re building it.
Contact Us
Interested students, companies, or collaborators can learn more:
nmagotra@wne.edu
engineering@wne.edu