FAU College of Engineering Leads Florida in Next Generation of Quantum Computing
Friday, Jan 30, 2026
Florida Atlantic University President Hasner recently announced the purchase of a D-Wave Advantage2 quantum computer, making FAU the first university in Florida to host a quantum computer on campus and marking a major milestone for the Florida Atlantic University College of Engineering and Computer Science.
This cutting-edge system provides students and faculty with immediate, hands-on access to quantum computing — today, not a decade from now — enabling work on real-world challenges in optimization across engineering disciplines, including robotics, intelligent infrastructure, energy, logistics, finance, health, and emergency management. The investment aligns naturally with FAU’s strengths in engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence, and autonomy, and accelerates the College’s vision for integrated, next-generation computing.
“Acquiring the D-Wave Advantage2 quantum computer allows us to build foundational infrastructure that positions Florida Atlantic University to lead in the next generation of computing,” said Stella Batalama, Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science. “This is part of a deliberate strategy—investing early in transformative infrastructure across AI, autonomy, and now quantum—to elevate FAU as a national leader in research, innovation, and workforce development.”
Dean Batalama added that the impact is amplified by D-Wave’s growing presence in South Florida, including the relocation of its headquarters and the establishment of a research center just two miles from FAU’s Boca Raton campus. “This proximity creates extraordinary opportunities for collaboration, talent development, and industry-engaged research, making this an especially exciting moment for our College and our community.”
This investment strengthens the College’s mission to deliver world-class education, foster interdisciplinary research, and translate advanced technologies into solutions that have a meaningful impact on the region, the state of Florida, and the nation.