Colorado State University has been awarded a $1.1 million gift from the W.M. Keck Foundation to support a quantum computer-oriented research program that holds the potential to develop a key step that could make possible the development of a large-scale quantum computer.
The Keck Foundation gift will enable researchers at CSU's Department of Physics to work to develop a laser cooled single-atom-on-demand source for silicon quantum computers. The project will yield an essential tool for researchers to precisely place atoms within nanometers of a designated target and overcome a critical roadblock in nano-fabrication.
A quantum computer would have the ability to process and carry out massive parallel computation at much faster speeds than traditional computers. Quantum computing holds great promise for Internet security and likely will have a widespread impact in the future of nano-electronics.
The W.M. Keck Foundation is one of the nation's largest philanthropic organizations. Established in 1954 by the late William Myron Keck, the founder of The Superior Oil Company, the Foundation's grant making is focused primarily on the areas of medical research, science and engineering. More information about the W.M. Keck Foundation is available online at www.wmkeck.org.
Gov. Bill Ritter has appointed Thomas Farley, lawyer and public servant from Pueblo, Colo., and Patrick McConathy, a rancher from McCoy, Colo., to the Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System.
The nine-member board had appointed McConathy in November to the position held by Jeff Shoemaker of Denver, who resigned last year. Board members are typically appointed by the governor, but the board can fill vacancies that occur mid-term. The Governor's appointment enables McConathy to serve a full term.
"The tremendous experience that Patrick and Tom have in the political arena and as business and community leaders in southern and western Colorado will complement Colorado State's land-grant mission to serve the needs of rural, urban, and suburban communities across our state," added Larry Edward Penley, chancellor of the Colorado State University System. "We welcome them to the board."
