Lehigh University's Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) will take a leading role in a transformative new research initiative aimed at advancing quantum computing applications in process systems engineering. Supported by a $550K grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), this collaborative project—titled "Hybrid Quantum Algorithms for Structured Optimization Problems in Process Systems Engineering"—brings together experts from Lehigh, USC, and Purdue. The research will develop new quantum optimization algorithms that could revolutionize decision-making across engineering and business fields. In particular, the team aims to design and analyze novel hybrid quantum-classical algorithms (which combine the capabilities of both classical and quantum computing devices), capable of solving complex optimization problems commonly encountered in process systems industries. The three-year project is funded under the NSF’s engineering program, call for projects on Engineering Research in Quantum Information Science and Engineering, with Lehigh ISE receiving $266K of the total budget.
The project is led by Principal Investigator Professor Tamás Terlaky, a recognized leader in conic optimization and quantum computing, along with Co-Principal Investigator Professor Luis F. Zuluaga, an expert in polynomial optimization and energy systems, both from Lehigh ISE. Arielle Carr from Lafayette College is also a Co-PI, contributing expertise in quantum linear algebra algorithms. The broader team includes Giacomo Nannicini from the USC and David E. Bernal Neira from Purdue University, bringing additional strengths in quantum computing and chemical engineering optimization, respectively.
Terlaky says “For over a decade, research in quantum computing optimization has primarily focused on solving highly relevant yet still “niche” combinatorial optimization problems. Our team, based also on our expertise in quantum conic optimization, seeks to take a first step toward expanding the practical impact of quantum devices by demonstrating how these emerging technologies can support decision-making across a broad range of industrial applications.”
This research exemplifies Lehigh ISE’s commitment to cutting-edge, interdisciplinary innovation in optimization, quantum computing, and systems engineering. As quantum technology continues to evolve, Lehigh ISE remains at the forefront of bridging foundational theory with practical engineering applications.