Federal Project Grant Summary

The National Science Foundation's Division of Computer and Network Systems awarded $337,566 to the Research Foundation of the City University of New York (RFCUNY), doing business as Rfcuny - City College, under the Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) program (CFDA 47.070) on June 1, 2026. This CAREER award supports a five-year research initiative (through May 31, 2031) focused on developing practical security solutions for cloud-based quantum computing systems. The project delivers research-driven products and services addressing vulnerabilities in quantum circuit execution on cloud platforms, including the development of novel attack detection mechanisms, quantum circuit design strategies tailored to different threat models, and runtime techniques to enhance the integrity and confidentiality of quantum computations. The research identifies emerging Trojan designs that exploit recent advancements in quantum hardware control and bridges the gap between theoretical secure quantum computing foundations and the engineering limitations of near-term quantum computers.

In addition to its core research deliverables, the project includes an integrated education program spanning high school through graduate level, featuring curriculum development, new course modules, and summer research opportunities. The education component employs research-based practices and competition-based activities to effectively integrate research and education, with particular emphasis on broadening participation and preparing the next generation of quantum computing security professionals. This work directly advances national interests in strengthening secure quantum computing capabilities that support national defense, economic competitiveness, and critical applications.