Stony Brook University highlighted its growing leadership in quantum technologies during the 2026 SUNY State of the University Campus Showcase, held June 3 in Albany alongside the annual State of the University address by State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr.
Hosted prior to the chancellor’s address, the Campus Showcase brought together representatives from SUNY campuses to showcase research, academic programs and initiatives advancing student success, strengthening New York’s workforce, and tackling challenges ranging from healthcare and sustainability to emerging technologies.
Representing Stony Brook University, Hyeongrak “Chuck” Choi, assistant professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, highlighted the university’s work in quantum computing, quantum networks, quantum sensing and quantum devices. The exhibit featured visual displays and device samples demonstrating quantum technologies, including quantum computing, secure quantum communication networks and miniaturized quantum sensors with applications ranging from healthcare to navigation and scientific discovery.
Choi also discussed Stony Brook’s interdisciplinary approach to quantum workforce development, preparing students for careers spanning quantum physics, electrical engineering, materials science, microelectronics, photonics and information science.
“The goal of the presentation was to show how Stony Brook is contributing to state and national priorities in quantum technology through interdisciplinary research, education and innovation,” Choi said.
Those themes closely aligned with the priorities King outlined during his address, which focused on SUNY’s role in fueling student success, strengthening New York’s economy and preparing engaged citizens through higher education.
“At a time when doomerism and cynicism too often rule the day, our successes stand in sharp rebuke to anyone who says higher education is adrift, or not worth the investment, or lacking in guiding principles,” King said. “To them, we say: come to SUNY, where we open doors. Come to SUNY, where there’s a place for every New Yorker to thrive.”
Among the initiatives highlighted during the address were expanded student success programs, increased support for internships and experiential learning, investments in artificial intelligence education and workforce preparation, and efforts to expand research across the SUNY system. King also emphasized SUNY’s commitment to increasing degree completion through advising, financial support and expanded student services.
Research and innovation were central themes throughout the address, with King highlighting major state investments that position SUNY campuses at the forefront of emerging technologies.
Last fall, Governor Kathy Hochul and King announced a $300 million investment in the Quantum Research and Innovation Hub at Stony Brook University, an initiative designed to establish New York as a national leader in quantum information science. The hub is focused on developing secure quantum communication networks while advancing breakthroughs in cybersecurity, healthcare, clean energy and other fields expected to shape the future economy.
King cited the Quantum Research and Innovation Hub as one example of SUNY’s expanding research enterprise, alongside major initiatives in neuroscience, artificial intelligence, personalized medicine and sustainability research.
“I can think of few topics today that provoke the level of economic and existential anxiety that AI does, and yet, I believe AI presents an opportunity to live our values,” King said. “Creativity, communication and problem-solving are not just skills that can be taught; they are inexorably human, relational practices that help us navigate the world.”
The chancellor also emphasized the importance of preparing students not only for successful careers but also for active participation in civic life. His address highlighted the continued expansion of the Empire State Service Corps, new opportunities for civic engagement and voter participation, and initiatives designed to strengthen civil discourse across SUNY campuses.
King also recognized the work of Laura Lindenfeld, executive director of Stony Brook University’s Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science.
“The chancellor’s continued commitment to research is a welcome one,” Lindenfeld said. “We also know science is more impactful when it can be understood in a way that brings people together. That’s why we’re so glad to see not only the chancellor’s commitment to expanding research but also to supporting students and faculty in their ability to have difficult conversations that lead to understanding. Communication is a core part of research infrastructure. The Alda Center is proud to partner with SUNY to build that capacity.”
“The State of the University is a critical opportunity for Stony Brook to demonstrate the return on investment New York makes in research,” said Carl Mills, associate vice president for government relations. “Showcasing the groundbreaking work made possible by the state’s historic $300 million investment in the Quantum Research and Innovation Hub helps strengthen the university’s future advocacy efforts.”
— Beth Squire
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