The Quantum Algorithms and Optimization (QAO) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program at the University of Tennessee is a unique opportunity for students to conduct quantum computing related research and apply this cutting-edge methodology to solve currently intractable, real-world optimization problems. Projects will engage with faculty from both the Departments of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) and Physics and Astronomy (PA).
This interdisciplinary experience will familiarize students with combinatorial optimization problems and the latest quantum algorithms that may yield approximate solutions to these challenging problems. Students will work in multidisciplinary teams to either tackle an unresolved optimization problem or develop mathematical theory that proves or disproves quantum algorithm viability. Check out projects for summer 2025.
Additionally, QAO students may participate in other professional development activities such as seminars by leading quantum computing experts, showcases to present and discuss their research, and team building experiences with other REU students from across campus.
Contact Information
Rebekah Herrman
Principal Investigator
Assistant Professor, ISE
Jim Ostrowski
Senior Personnel
Professor, ISE
George Siopsis
Senior Personnel
Professor, Physics and Astronomy
Eligibility
In order to be eligible for participation in the QAO REU, students must be:
- A U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program. Students graduating by August 2025 are not eligible to participate.
- Majoring in mathematics, physics, computer science, industrial engineering, chemistry, electrical engineering, or closely related fields.
Preferred student qualifications include:
- A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 in all STEM courses
- At least three semesters of physics
- Knowledge of linear algebra
- Experience using Python
Timeline
The tentative timeline for the 2025 QAO REU is:
- October 15 – Applications open
- February 1 – Applications due
- Late February – Acceptances sent
- Mid March– Responses due & additional round of acceptances sent, if needed
- May 25 – Students arrive on campus
- May 27 – First day of REU
- August 1 – Last day of REU
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to learn more about the Research Experience for Undergraduates? Check out our frequently asked questions below or contact us to have your questions answered.
No. All participants receive a $6,000 stipend (with a possible increase to $7,000 depending on sponsor funding) for the 10 weeks and there is a small budget for travel costs to and from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Selected students will be notified of the funding amount when offers are made.
Yes, on-campus housing is provided.
There are multiple projects related to quantum algorithms for solving optimization problems. Students will rank their choices on the application. Accepted students will be matched to projects as best as possible based on the rankings.
No, only permanent residents and US citizens are eligible to participate.
Yes! We especially encourage students with limited research opportunities at their home university to apply.
No, we are unable to accommodate date changes.