ABOUT US
Quantum Innovation and Networking Under Montana's Big Sky
Rooted in the Gallatin Valley’s innovation ecosystem — with global visibility shaped by Montana State University and regional tech leadership — QCORE is building the quantum networking infrastructure that powers the next generation of computing, sensing, and secure communication.
Why QCORE Exists
Mission Statement
To accelerate quantum innovation by building, testing and deploying enabling technology to connect systems, and people to scale real-world quantum applications.
Purpose Statement
QCORE serves academic researchers, industry partners, government agencies, and emerging talent who need a dynamic and accessible platform to transform pioneering ideas into proven technologies, shaping the future of quantum innovation.
Vision Statement
Lead Montana’s transformation into a global powerhouse for quantum-enabled technologies by 2035, fostering economic growth, academic excellence, and a resilient, future-focused workforce.
The future of quantum technology isn’t just about building perfect quantum computers — it’s about demonstrating their performance and creating the technology to connect and network them. QCORE drives innovation by developing practical benchmarks and scalable solutions, expanding the potential of quantum systems into technologies that work in the real world.
From Montana's Innovation Ecosystem to Global Impact
QCORE builds on Montana’s thriving innovation ecosystem, where photonics, materials research, and decades of technical expertise in cryogenics fuel the quantum supply chain—bridging academic insight with real-world impact.
Bridging Research and Impact
What began as a research initiative has evolved into a dynamic quantum networking platform. QCORE connects systems, researchers, industry leaders, and emerging talent to accelerate the development of regional—and broader—quantum capabilities.
A Legacy of Innovation
Montana State University’s long history of investment in photonics and cryogenics has helped create one of the largest photonics clusters in the United States. QCORE extends this strength, building the infrastructure needed to support the next era of quantum systems.
Regional Strength, Global Reach
Montana is uniquely positioned to deliver the photonic interfaces, integrated systems, and supply chain solutions that will accelerate quantum deployment worldwide. From our base in Bozeman, we’re building networks that will connect the world.
Rooted in Academic Excellence
QCORE is a new initiative at Montana State University that offers collaborators world-class facilities, top-tier talent, and a dynamic environment that combines technical rigor with agile innovation to solve real-world quantum challenges.
MSU Core Facilities
Direct access to quantum computing testbed with multiple modalities and advanced fabrication and testing equipment
Student Pipeline
Training the next generation of quantum ready technicians and professionals
Faculty Collaboration
Partnership with leading researchers in quantum and quantum adjacent science, technology and innovation
Translational Partnerships
Seamless connection between academic research and commercial application
The People Powering QCORE Collaboration
QCORE brings together experts across disciplines who share a common vision: making quantum technology practical and accessible.
Corporate & Government Partners
Access quantum computing time, test components across modalities, leverage technical expertise, and tap quantum talent pipeline.
Public Sector & Defense Agencies
Collaborate on dual-use technology with quantum resource access and specialized expertise.
Building on Proven Foundations, Delivering Results
QCORE builds on decades of regional expertise—from quantum breakthroughs at Montana State University to advanced infrastructure across the Gallatin Valley. This foundation supports a robust platform for quantum networking, emphasizing measurement confidence and product validation.
As global benchmarks evolve, QCORE helps shape the future by providing environments to test, demonstrate, and refine quantum technologies in alignment with international standards bodies like ISO/IEC JTC1, QED-C, and IEEE.
Where Innovation Meets Infrastructure
Quantum Testbed with Multiple Computing Modalities
A flexible environment for testing entanglement distribution, multiple quantum computing modalities including photonic and superconducting systems, and quantum-classical integration—one of only seven worldwide and the first in our region.
Materials & Device Prototyping Lab
Device prototyping, development and fabrication, cryogenic testing, and photonics integration capabilities to support novel technology innovations and network-ready device development.
Cryogenics Facility
Advanced cooling systems that enable quantum operations at the temperatures required for optimal performance.
Hybrid Networking Infrastructure
Systems that connect different quantum computing modalities and enable hybrid quantum-classical applications.
Quantum Simulators
Cloud-enabled simulation environments for modeling hybrid quantum systems and validating performance before deployment.
Building a Network of Collaborators around the world
Government & Defense
- Air Force Research Laboratory
- Members of the National Science Foundation MonArk Quantum Foundry
Academic Institutions
- Collaborations with leading universities and national laboratories worldwide
- Supported by Montana State University faculty, research staff, post-docs, graduate and undergraduate researchers
Montana Photonics Ecosystem
- Deep integration with Montana’s photonics cluster
- Partnerships with equipment manufacturers, component suppliers, and service providers
Industry Leaders
- Strategic relationships with quantum hardware manufacturers, software companies, and system integrators
- Partnerships with global and national leaders driving quantum innovation
Regional & Local Collaborators
- Regional and local partners across industry, academia, and government
- Local innovators and ecosystem builders supporting research and commercialization
From Research to Real-World Results
QCORE’s work extends beyond our facilities to create a lasting impact across industries and communities:
Technology Advancement
Accelerating the development of quantum networks that make quantum computing more accessible and practical
Economic Growth
Attracting quantum companies and investment to Montana while supporting local economic development
Workforce Development
Training the next generation of quantum professionals through internships, fellowships, and educational programs
National Security
Contributing to America's quantum competitiveness through partnerships with defense agencies and national laboratories
The Future We're Building
QCORE is more than a research facility—we’re building the foundation for a quantum-enabled future. Our vision extends beyond today’s limitations to a world where quantum information, computing and networks seamlessly integrate with classical systems, enabling breakthrough applications we’re only beginning to imagine.
The future of quantum technology starts with trusted networks. From Montana’s innovation ecosystem, we’re developing the frameworks, standards and systems needed to connect quantum technologies worldwide. Future Initiatives:
- Advancing quantum networking protocols and standards
- Developing quantum-classical hybrid systems
- Creating industry-specific quantum applications
- Building the quantum workforce of tomorrow
Explore Our Network
Whether you’re a researcher, entrepreneur, student, or industry professional, there’s a place for you in QCORE’s network. We’re building the future of quantum technology, and we need diverse perspectives and expertise to make it happen.
For Industry & Corporate Partners
For Researchers & Academics
For Startups & Entrepreneurs
For Students & Early Career
For Government & Defense
Ready to learn more about QCORE?
Get in touch to explore research partnerships, facility access, or workforce programs.
What Our Clients Say About Us
Michael Hayduk (AFRL)
“QCORE is building a resilient quantum ecosystem by uniting local strengths with national partners to accelerate impactful quantum innovation.”
Tommaso Macrì
“QCORE is establishing itself as a leader in the U.S. academic quantum ecosystem through strong collaboration, vision, and institutional excellence.”
Daniel Rodan Legrain, PhD
“QCORE brings together world-class talent and ambitious collaboration, creating a strong foundation for the future of the quantum ecosystem.”
Keith Wright
“Montana is emerging as a rising quantum hub, and QCORE’s leadership, vision, and momentum are incredibly inspiring.”








