Job Description

The Executive Director of QCORE serves as the head of a university-wide research institute and works closely with affiliated faculty and staff to build and lead a successful program advancing research and scientific discovery in quantum science, engineering, and business.

QCORE’s primary objective is to empower Montana’s quantum ecosystem by uniting cutting-edge research, industry partnerships, and community engagement – enabling breakthrough technologies that shape the future of quantum innovation. The vision of QCORE is to lead Montana’s transformation into a global powerhouse for quantum-enabled technologies by 2035, fostering economic growth, academic excellence and a resilient, future-focused workforce.

QCORE exists to steward the development of transformative quantum technologies in service to the common good. QCORE will help students plan for careers in quantum and quantum-enabling systems and will support transitioning into those careers through strategic partnerships with Montana’s growing quantum industry. Strategic partnerships serve as the mechanism for QCORE to strengthen relationships between industry, research and innovators – growing collaboration and creating shared opportunities for beneficial technology innovations.

Pending approval of research center status, QCORE is housed in The College of Letters & Science (CLS), the largest center for learning, teaching and research at Montana State University. CLS offers students an excellent liberal arts and sciences education in nearly 50 majors, 25 minors and over 25 graduate degrees within the four areas of the humanities, natural sciences, mathematical, and social sciences.

Building on the great strength of our traditional disciplines, the college provides exciting opportunities for faculty and students at the cutting edge of interdisciplinary inquiry. CLS is dedicated to supporting student success, discovering and disseminating new knowledge, and providing an atmosphere in which discovery and learning are integrated and valued. CLS is at the confluence of intellectual tradition, discovery, and innovation.

When research center status is finalized for QCORE, the center will be in the Office of the Vice President for Research and Economic Development.