Seven research-intensive universities in Pennsylvania have joined with the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and Team Pennsylvania to create the Keystone AI + Quantum Factory, according to an announcement on Apr. 23. The new statewide innovation network aims to use artificial intelligence and quantum computing to turn university research into practical solutions for important industries in the state.
This collaboration is significant because it is the first time all seven of the state’s research institutions have come together around a shared vision for large-scale artificial intelligence and quantum technology projects that benefit businesses and workers in Pennsylvania.
Barr von Oehsen, executive director of the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, said, “This collaboration will serve as a powerful economic catalyst for Pennsylvania. It will transform groundbreaking research into solutions for the commonwealth’s energy, manufacturing, agricultural, life sciences, AI and robotics sectors, while driving lasting job creation and building a future-proof workforce.”
Jen Gilburg, deputy secretary for technology and entrepreneurship at the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, said: “Bringing together Pennsylvania’s top research universities, the Keystone AI and Quantum Factory will accelerate breakthroughs in technologies that are shaping the future of our economy. This initiative will turn world-class research into new companies, high-quality jobs and economic opportunity across the commonwealth.”
The Keystone AI + Quantum Factory is organized around three main pillars: supporting world-class research by launching startups and building partnerships with businesses; preparing students and employees for careers focused on technology; and providing shared infrastructure such as large-scale computing resources needed to lead in artificial intelligence.
Rob Rutenbar, senior vice chancellor for research at University of Pittsburgh said: “The University of Pittsburgh is proudly supporting the Keystone Factory. This effort will significantly advance our understanding of the universe through Professor Evan Schneider’s groundbreaking research in star formation, and it will enable better health outcomes through Professor Adrian Lee’s research on tumor evolution. For the first time, we are coordinating the expertise and sharing the infrastructure of our Center for Research Computing and Data to support Pennsylvanians and businesses across the commonwealth.”
Photography by Tom Altany.
