GPN Quantum Research Collaboration Workshop Held at America’s Underground Lab
A summer Quantum Research Collaboration Workshop, held at SURF, was a landmark event for the quantum research community in the Midwest.
A July Quantum Research Collaboration Workshop, held at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in Lead, South Dakota, was a landmark event for the quantum research community in the Midwest. This two-day workshop, organized by the South Dakota Quantum Center Initiative in partnership with the Great Plains Network (GPN) and The Institute for Underground Science at SURF, brought together researchers, educators, and institutional representatives to foster new projects and collaborations in quantum science.
A Networking Kickoff
Participants first connected at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center and delved into the rich history of the region. From its origins as the deepest gold mine in the Northern Hemisphere to its transformation into a hub for Nobel Prize-winning science and cosmic exploration, the story of SURF set an inspiring tone for the event.
Institutional Overviews and Quantum Initiatives
The first day featured a series of institutional overviews, providing insights into the missions and visions of key organizations driving quantum research in the Midwest. Representatives from SURF, GPN, Dakota State University, and the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology shared their ongoing projects and future plans. This session highlighted the collaborative spirit and collective ambition of these institutions.
Participants also explored the latest quantum initiatives led by the South Dakota Quantum Center. Discussions on the potential GPN Quantum Network sparked excitement, as attendees considered the possibilities of creating a robust and interconnected quantum research community.
Quantum Curriculum Development
A significant portion of the workshop was dedicated to the evolving landscape of quantum education and training. Experts in the field discussed curriculum development and implementation strategies, emphasizing the importance of preparing the next generation of quantum scientists. The exchange of ideas and best practices in this session laid the groundwork for future educational collaborations.
Brainstorming Forum
The brainstorming forum was a dynamic and engaging part of the workshop. Attendees participated in lively discussions to identify collaborative opportunities and chart the course for future quantum endeavors. This forum allowed for the cross- pollination of ideas and the formation of new partnerships, underscoring the event's goal of fostering connections within the quantum research community.
Technology Leaders and Quantum Researchers
The workshop was notably attended by technology leaders and quantum researchers from five GPN states: South Dakota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri. This diverse representation enriched the discussions and helped build a more comprehensive network of quantum research initiatives across the region.
Surface Tour of SURF
Participants also had the opportunity to explore the surface laboratories at SURF. This tour provided a firsthand look at the cutting-edge facilities and ongoing research projects at the site, further inspiring attendees and showcasing the possibilities of underground science.
Conclusion: A Step Forward in Quantum Research Collaboration
The Quantum Research Collaboration Workshop at SURF was a resounding success. It achieved its aim of forging connections and fostering new project ideas within the GPN quantum research community. By bringing together a diverse group of experts and institutions, the event set the stage for future collaborations and advancements in quantum science.
As the workshop concluded, attendees left with new insights, partnership possibilities, and a renewed commitment to pushing the boundaries of quantum research. The event marked a significant step forward in building a vibrant and interconnected quantum research community for South Dakota, the Great Plains Network and beyond.
For more information, contact:
Mickey Slimp, GPN <mick@greatplains.net>
Stacie Granum, The Institute for Underground Science at SURF <sgranum@sanfordlab.org>
