Bennie G. Thompson

08/29/2024 | Press release | Archived content

Congressman Thompson Announces National Science Foundation (NSF) Award to Jackson State University for Quantum Sensing Research

Bolton, MS- Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson is pleased to announce that Jackson State University (JSU) has been awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant with an intended total amount of $800,000. This significant investment is part of the NSF's Expanding Capacity in Quantum Information Science and Engineering (ExpandQISE) initiative.

The project, entitled "ExpandQISE: Track 1: JSU-UNL Collaboration on Quantum Sensing Research and Education for Minority Participants," is under the direction of Dr. Paresh Ray. The initiative focuses on developing novel quantum biosensors with unprecedented spatial resolution and sensitivity, which hold the potential for groundbreaking applications in biotechnology and next-generation medical diagnostics devices.

The project aims to design and explore the potential of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) diamond-based quantum sensors to monitor localized biological events in live cells under physiological conditions. By fostering an interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers at Jackson State University, a historically black college or university (HBCU) serving institution, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), this project will advance quantum sensing research and provide unique educational opportunities for minority participants.

"I am proud to see Jackson State University leading such innovative and impactful research," said Congressman Thompson. "This project not only represents a significant step forward in the field of quantum information science but also exemplifies the critical role that HBCUs play in advancing research and education for underrepresented communities."

This NSF award underscores the importance of investing in diverse institutions and fostering collaborations that expand the frontiers of science and technology. Congressman Thompson remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote educational excellence and scientific advancement in Mississippi and beyond.

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