The quantum industry is growing fast, yet companies face a persistent talent gap. While PhD holders have traditionally driven research, the sector now requires a workforce capable of building, operating, and maintaining complex hardware in real-world lab environments. The University of Oregon is addressing this shortage through its new Quantum and Nanotechnology track within the Applied Physics Master’s Program.
Directed by Research Assistant Professor Nik Zhelev, this program prioritizes practical, hands-on experience over purely theoretical study. Students work directly with research-grade hardware, including dilution refrigerators, to gain proficiency in cryogenics, RF systems, and nanofabrication. By moving away from the conventional academic path, the department provides an alternative route for those looking to enter the workforce as experimentalists rather than researchers.
Access to equipment like the Bluefors dilution refrigerator is central to this initiative. This system allows students to learn in a noise-free, low-temperature environment that mimics the conditions found at leading quantum computing companies. This training demystifies cryogenic measurements and ensures that graduates are ready to contribute to lab operations immediately upon hire.
The results speak for themselves. Graduates have already secured roles at organizations such as Rigetti Computing, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and Bluefors. Whether they are managing nanofabrication processes or maintaining quantum systems, these students arrive at their workplaces with the technical skills required to navigate high-stakes environments.
As the industry continues to scale, the need for skilled technicians will only increase. By exposing students to diverse qubit modalities and measurement workflows, the program prepares them to handle the rapid pace of change in the field. This practical approach ensures that the next generation of workers can bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry production.