350+ UMD Researchers Anchor Quantum World Congress in College Park

The University of Maryland will host the 2026 Quantum World Congress, to be held September 23-25 at The Hotel at the University of Maryland Park. This partnership recognizes both UMD’s longstanding leadership in quantum science and the region’s growing quantum ecosystem, which includes over 350 researchers.

“Quantum World Congress was created to connect the people and institutions moving quantum from promise to practice,” said George Thomas, CEO of Connected DMV, and added that “There is no better place to host that conversation in 2026 than College Park, and no better academic partner than the University of Maryland.”

University of Maryland Named 2026 Lead Academic Partner

The University of Maryland’s commitment to quantum science extends beyond theoretical research; the institution actively translates discoveries into six key fields, computing, networking, materials, national security, life sciences, and workforce development, demonstrating a proactive approach to application. University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines highlighted this translational focus during his keynote address at the 2025 Quantum World Congress, outlining UMD’s progress in these areas and signaling a long-term vision for quantum technology.

The selection of these specific dates allows ample time for organizers and attendees to plan for the event, solidifying College Park as a central hub for the quantum community. UMD is home to a substantial quantum research enterprise, encompassing over 350 scientists and engineers dedicated to advancing fields like quantum computing and cryptography.

This concentration of expertise is bolstered by collaborative institutions including the Joint Quantum Institute and the Joint Center for Quantum Information and Computer Science, both established in partnership with the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Further strengthening UMD’s position are the NSF-funded Institute for Robust Quantum Simulation and Center for Quantum Networks, alongside initiatives like the Quantum Startup Foundry and the National Quantum Laboratory at Maryland.

These resources collectively create a robust environment for quantum innovation, attracting both researchers and commercial ventures. IonQ, a quantum computing firm originating from UMD research, maintains its headquarters in Discovery District Maryland, showing the university’s success in fostering industry partnerships. The decision to host the 2026 Congress in College Park is not merely logistical; it’s a deliberate move to place the event within a thriving quantum ecosystem.

This regional momentum is further underscored by the $1 billion Capital of Quantum initiative launched by Maryland Governor Wes Moore in 2025, designed to accelerate quantum research, commercialization, and workforce development. The establishment of the Capital Quantum Benchmarking Hub, jointly announced by DARPA and the State of Maryland, adds another layer of significance. Based at UMD’s Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security in Discovery District Maryland, the hub will focus on rigorously testing and evaluating quantum computing systems for both national security and commercial applications.

Microsoft’s planned new quantum research lab in Discovery District Maryland further solidifies the region’s position as a leading center for quantum innovation. Pines. “We have spent decades advancing the science that is now driving one of the world’s most dynamic quantum ecosystems.” Pines concluded, “The Quantum World Congress is bringing together the world’s leading minds to accelerate discovery, inspire the next generation of talent, and forge the partnerships that will shape the emerging quantum economy.”