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The University of Iowa has secured nearly $1.5 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Defense to expand its materials science center, enhancing training for students and faculty and supporting collaborative research in quantum technologies.

The funding will facilitate research into the integration of materials for light-based and electronic quantum systems. Key project components include acquiring new fabrication equipment for patterning and etching materials, as well as a printing system for stacking materials to improve optical and electronic properties.

The research will be conducted at the Materials Analysis, Testing, and Fabrication (MATFab) Facility, which includes 1,500 square feet of clean room space. The expanded facility will serve as a regional hub for research, providing access to advanced equipment and hosting training programs and summer sessions for students from regional colleges.