Purdue Names Michael Manfra as Chief Quantum Officer
Purdue University has announced the appointment of renowned quantum scientist Michael Manfra as its Chief Quantum Officer, marking a significant step in strengthening the institution’s leadership in quantum science and technology. The appointment became effective on January 1, 2026.
Manfra currently serves as the director of the Purdue Quantum Science and Engineering Institute (PQSEI) and holds multiple academic positions, including Bill and Dee O’Brien Distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy, professor of electrical and computer engineering, and professor of materials engineering at Purdue.
Role and Responsibilities
In this newly created position, Manfra will oversee Purdue’s expanding quantum technology initiatives. His responsibilities include:
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Leading the university’s overall quantum research portfolio
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Strengthening partnerships with industry and government organizations
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Expanding quantum education programs
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Advising university leadership on quantum strategy
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Integrating quantum efforts with Purdue’s Purdue Computes initiative
He will also serve as a special advisor to Purdue President Mung Chiang and Provost Patrick Wolfe, helping align quantum research with the university’s broader technology and computing initiatives.
Preparing the Next Generation of Quantum Experts
The demand for professionals skilled in quantum science and technology is expected to rise significantly in the coming decade. To address this need, Purdue has introduced new degree programs in quantum science and engineering.
These programs focus on fields such as:
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Quantum computing
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Quantum communication
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Quantum sensing
The courses combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical training to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing quantum industry.
A Leading Figure in Quantum Research
Michael Manfra is widely recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to quantum physics and quantum technology.
One of his most notable achievements includes leading a team of Purdue scientists that demonstrated experimental evidence for “anyons,” a type of particle that plays a crucial role in building fault-tolerant quantum computers.
Before joining Purdue in 2009, Manfra spent about a decade as a research scientist at Bell Laboratories. He also served as the scientific director of Microsoft Quantum Lab in West Lafayette, contributing to efforts aimed at developing large-scale quantum computing systems.
Award-Winning Contributions
In recognition of his pioneering work in condensed matter physics, Manfra was awarded the 2026 Oliver E. Buckley Condensed Matter Physics Prize by the American Physical Society. The award honors his experimental work related to the observation of anyons in two-dimensional electron systems.
Purdue’s Growing Quantum Vision
Quantum science and engineering are a core part of Purdue’s Purdue Computes initiative, which focuses on advancing research in:
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Quantum technologies
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Artificial intelligence
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Semiconductor innovation
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Advanced computing
With the appointment of a Chief Quantum Officer, Purdue aims to accelerate research, strengthen collaborations, and position itself as a global leader in quantum technology development.
