Russell R. Ceballos, Ph.D., is a Latino quantum information theorist from the South/East-Side of Chicago. Dr. Ceballos has a background in the theory of open quantum systems and is currently the Quantum Education Program Administrator at the Chicago Quantum Exchange. He has a profound interest in the mathematical and philosophical foundations of quantum theory, as well as has a deep passion for understanding how to best teach the fundamental principles of quantum information science through the development of quantum games for pedagogy.
At the Chicago Quantum Exchange, Dr. Ceballos leverages his technical background to 1.) develop quantum curricula and course content, 2.) develop and support quantum-focused programs that foster a culture of inclusivity in Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE) for students from historically underserved and underrepresented communities by helping construct a supportive network of quantum-focused partnerships with other educational and research institutes in the region (which includes high schools and community colleges) to broaden participation among all demographics and disciplines via outreach events and workshops.
As a 2020 Cohort Member of the NSF's Convergence Accelerator program, he is currently serving as a co-PI and the curriculum development lead for QuSTEAM, which is an NSF-funded quantum education initiative that aims to develop a transformative and convergent undergraduate curriculum to grow a diverse, capable, and effective future quantum workforce.
Dr. Ceballos also works with the Quantum Institute within within the NSF Quantum sensing for Biophysics and Bioengineering (NSF QuBBE), the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's Hybrid Quantum Architectures and Networks (HQAN-CSU program), is an external member of the Pittsburgh Quantum Institute, and most recently served on the faculty of Chicago State University where he was the founder and director of the Quantum Innovation and Research Center, as well as a visiting faculty fellow at Fermi National Laboratory.