The State University of New York at Stony Brook will receive a $300 million investment from New York State to establish the Quantum Research and Innovation Hub. The new facility is expected to become the state’s leading center for research and education in quantum science, with an emphasis on quantum communication and networking. Construction is projected to take about three years, with an anticipated opening in 2029.
The planned 150,000-square-foot hub will include the SUNY Stony Brook Quantum Institute, the state’s first hybrid Quantum Data Center at a university, and the SUNY Stony Brook Quantum Education Consortium. These initiatives aim to integrate research, computing, and workforce training in order to address complex societal challenges and advance internet technology.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the funding at Stony Brook’s Center of Excellence in Wireless and Information Technology. She stated, “At a time when national investment in research and innovation is at risk, New York State is doubling down and SUNY is on the move. The State University of New York at Stony Brook is a research powerhouse and will now be able to reach new heights in quantum. We know that to provide our state and nation with a brighter future, we need to invest today, and that is what New York is committed to do.”
Stony Brook University President Andrea Goldsmith commented on the university’s achievements: “Stony Brook is proud to have built the largest quantum network in the United States. Through such transformative research, in partnership with New York State and SUNY, we are accelerating technology advancement and its positive impact across our state and beyond. The Quantum Research and Innovation Hub will spearhead the future of quantum computing and networking. Today’s historic investment further advances Stony Brook’s leadership in quantum science and technology, and showcases the bold ground-breaking research across our campus that delivers solutions to society’s most pressing challenges.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “ESD was proud to support the Long Island Quantum Internet Test Bed at Stony Brook, laying the foundation for New York’s leadership in this transformative field. The creation of the Quantum Research and Innovation Hub marks the next step in expanding research capacity, cultivating top talent, and advancing breakthroughs that will drive economic growth and cement New York’s position as a global leader in quantum technology.”
This investment forms part of more than $1.34 billion allocated by Governor Hochul over three years for advanced research projects at higher education institutions across New York.
Since January 2023, Stony Brook has received $72.5 million in additional operating aid from direct state tax support as well as $781.5 million in extra capital commitments from the state—including this latest allocation for the new hub.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. stated: “The State University of New York at Stony Brook is leading the way on cutting-edge research and emerging technologies, and this historic investment will accelerate efforts to ensure New York State is a global leader for generations to come. SUNY is committed to achieving Governor Hochul’s goal to double research expenditures for the sake of our students and our state.”
Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie added: “As a proud alumnus of Stony Brook University and a staunch supporter of the public education system in New York State, continued investment in our educational institutions are tantamount for the future success of the next generation. Our research universities have become the driving force behind technological and scientific advancements. As our SUNY system continues to expand, bridging the educational gap and fostering innovation, we must persist in making these investments that solidify New York and SUNY campuses as premier educational institutions.”
State Senator Monica Martinez said: “This investment will give Long Island the bandwidth to be at the forefront of the next era of science and innovation. The future Quantum Research and Innovation Hub at Stony Brook will build the infrastructure necessary to expand human understanding and drive the discoveries of tomorrow, creating new economic opportunities that strengthen our region and position New York to lead.”
