Renowned researcher will join the institute as the Curtis R. Priem Quantum Computing Constellation Chair beginning January 2027
October 9, 2026
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) today announced the appointment of James Misewich, Ph.D., as the Curtis R. Priem Quantum Computing Constellation Chair, effective January 1, 2027. A nationally recognized leader in energy, materials, and quantum science, Misewich will help lead RPI's quantum strategy, including expanding connections with Brookhaven National Laboratory, and support the development of a growing quantum ecosystem spanning academia, government, and industry. He will join the faculty of RPI’s Physics, Applied Physics, and Astronomy in the School of Science.
“Few scientists have done more to connect breakthrough quantum research with the partnerships needed to turn findings into impact,” said RPI President Martin A. Schmidt '81, Ph.D. “I am confident that Jim's arrival will accelerate our efforts in quantum computing, expand opportunities for our students and researchers, and strengthen RPI’s role in shaping the next generation of technological innovation.”
“New York has emerged as one of the nation’s most important centers for quantum breakthroughs,” said John E. Kelly, III, M.S. ‘78, Ph.D. ‘80, D.H.L. (Hon.), chair of the RPI board of trustees and retired IBM executive vice president. “Jim has been at the center of that ecosystem for years, helping advance the full quantum computing stack, from fundamental science and materials discovery to hardware and real-world applications. His appointment reinforces the region as a destination for quantum.”
His appointment builds on an existing relationship with RPI through the Co-design Center for Quantum Advantage (C2QA), a U.S. Department of Energy Quantum Information Science Research Center led by Brookhaven National Laboratory. Misewich is a founding leader of the center, which brings together universities, national laboratories, and industry partners to develop the technologies needed for scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computing.
"My work with C2QA has given me a front-row seat to the exceptional research taking place at RPI," said Misewich. "The Institute recognized the importance of quantum computing early and has paired that vision with world-class strengths in physics and computational science. As quantum technologies increasingly intersect with high-performance computing and artificial intelligence, I believe RPI is uniquely prepared to lead the next generation."
Misewich brings decades of experience spanning scientific research, technology development, and energy innovation. As Associate Laboratory Director for Energy and Photon Science at Brookhaven, he oversees departments in Chemistry, Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science, two Department of Energy national user facilities: the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II), and the Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN), and the Co-Design Center for Quantum Advantage. He is also a Founding Director for the New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology Consortium (NY-BEST) and has advised on a range of state energy and innovation initiatives. Misewich will maintain a joint appointment at Brookhaven after joining the Institute.
“Jim’s new role at RPI creates an exciting opportunity to deepen collaboration between Brookhaven and RPI in quantum computing and other areas,” said John Hill, Brookhaven National Laboratory director. “We are confident his expertise will benefit both organizations while advancing the capabilities and applications of quantum computing.”
Prior to Brookhaven in 2002, Misewich spent two decades at IBM's Thomas J. Watson Research Center, contributing to advances in laser science, correlated electron material transport, and nanoscience. Misewich holds 15 U.S. patents focused on advanced electronic and optical materials. He earned his Ph.D. from Cornell University and is a Fellow of both the American Physical Society and the Optical Society of America.
His appointment reflects the continued growth of RPI’s quantum computing enterprise, which has expanded significantly through investments in faculty, research, and advanced computing infrastructure. Support from RPI alumnus and NVIDIA co-founder Curtis R. Priem, B.S. ‘82 launched the Curtis R. Priem Quantum Constellation and enabled the deployment of the IBM Quantum System One, making RPI the first university in the nation to host a quantum computer on its campus. The Institute has since expanded those capabilities with IBM’s Nighthawk processor, further strengthening opportunities for research and education.
The Curtis R. Priem Quantum Computing Constellation Chair was established to attract internationally recognized leaders who can help shape the future of the field. Misewich’s appointment advances that vision, adding distinguished scientific stewardship to an initiative designed to position RPI and the Capital Region at the forefront of quantum research and talent development.
About Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Founded in 1824 for the application of science to the common purposes of life, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is the first technological research university in the United States. Today, it is recognized as a premier university, noted for its robust and holistic learning community that connects creativity with science and technology. RPI is dedicated to inventing for the future, from shaping scientists, engineers, technologists, architects, financiers, managers, and entrepreneurs who will define what’s next for humanity, to research that bridges disciplines to solve the world's toughest problems. Learn more at rpi.edu.