UCF Doctoral Student Wins 2nd Place in Global Quantum Computing Hackathon

A doctoral student in electrical engineering, Md. Sakibul Islam, developed a framework that identifies reliable and efficient routes for transmitting quantum information across a network. The solution placed second at the Florida International University node of the Qollab X IonQ Hackathon 2026, a global competition that offers cash prizes and quantum compute credits. The framework builds on research conducted in the Quantum Devices Lab, where silicon‑based quantum devices are investigated for generation, control and transmission of quantum information. Islam’s approach extends that work to the network level, balancing entanglement quality, photon loss and communication speed to select optimal communication paths that incorporate solid‑state qubits.

The lab, led by Assistant Professor Wayesh Qarony, aims to develop scalable quantum‑internet technologies using semiconductor components compatible with existing telecommunications infrastructure. The achievement highlights the lab’s focus on silicon‑based devices, integrated photonic circuits and architectures needed to connect them into larger quantum systems. Islam noted that the recognition reinforces the potential of combining fundamental research with engineering to advance quantum science and engineering at the university.

Press release issued by UCF Today:
https://www.ucf.edu/news/ucf-doctoral-student-wins-2nd-place-in-global-quantum-computing-hackathon/

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Source: UCF Today

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