October 22, 2021
Dear Colleagues,
The importance of quantum science has emerged as a space that is key to Pitt’s academic and research portfolios.
Pitt’s efforts in quantum science are distinctive strengths to build upon: to develop programs and create a robust learning environment, to build skill, to create and access, and to grow diversity and numbers of engaged students.
To further advance our efforts, I am very pleased to announce that Dr. Chandralekha Singh—who is a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and founding director of the Discipline-based Science Education Research Center—has agreed to take on an additional role in the Office of the Provost as Special Assistant to the Provost for Quantum Education. This appointment was effective September 1, 2021.
In this new capacity, Chandralekha will work to develop undergraduate and graduate programs in quantum science, convening a committee of faculty members from across the University who share interests in quantum science and contribute to our Quantum Science Initiative.
She will work with Vice Provost for Undergraduate Studies Joe McCarthy and Vice Provost for Graduate Studies Amanda Godley to envision and formally propose the educational offerings.
Chandralekha is uniquely suited to develop exceptional educational opportunities that leverage our pre-eminent quantum science faculty.
Chandralekha is a part of Q2Work, a National Science Foundation-funded program that provides support for the Quantum Information Science (QIS) education ecosystem through digital tools, outreach, and collaborative workshops. Q2Work is a member of the National Q-12 Education Partnership launched by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the NSF. Q-12 is a consortium that will expand access to K-12 quantum learning tools and inspire the next generation of quantum leaders and foster a range of training opportunities to increase the capabilities, diversity and number of students who are ready to engage in the quantum workforce. Additionally, Chandralekha’s research focuses on how to improve the teaching and learning of subjects like physics at all levels.
Chandralekha was a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Illinois, and she earned a PhD in physics (theoretical condensed matter) from the University of California, an MA in physics from the University of California, and a BS with Honors in physics (five-year integrated BS/MS physics) at the Indian Institute of Technology in Kharagpur, India.
Please join me in welcoming Chandralekha to the Office of the Provost’s team—and to this important assignment.
Best,
Ann
Ann E. Cudd
Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor
Professor of Philosophy
University of Pittsburgh