January 19,2026
In a significant move for China’s rapidly advancing quantum technology sector, leading physicist You Chenglong has reportedly left his position at Louisiana State University (LSU) to join the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in Chengdu.
This transition highlights the ongoing global competition for top talent in the strategically critical field of quantum science.
You, a rising star in quantum sensing and precision measurement, has spent over a decade in the United States, earning his PhD in Physics from LSU in 2019.
His research focuses on leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to achieve unprecedented levels of measurement accuracy, with applications ranging from ultra-precise navigation systems to the detection of gravitational waves.
His Google Scholar profile, which now lists UESTC as his affiliation, showcases a prolific publication record with over 1,500 citations, underscoring his significant contributions to the field.
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Attribute |
Details |
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New Position |
Professor, UESTC (Chengdu) |
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Previous Position |
Louisiana State University (LSU) |
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Research Focus |
Quantum Sensing, Precision Measurement, Quantum Plasmonics, Quantum Imaging |
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Education |
PhD in Physics, LSU (2019) |
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Academic Impact |
1,566 total citations; h-index of 21 |
The University of Electronic Science and Technology of China is a prominent institution in China, particularly known for its cutting-edge research in electronics and information technology. The university’s inclusion on the U.S. government’s export-control Entity List since 2012 points to its significant role in defense-related research, including areas like radar and electronic warfare.
UESTC has a dedicated focus on quantum research, with a School of Physics that offers a PhD major in Quantum Physics and Quantum Information, and an Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences (IFFS) that prioritizes quantum technologies.
This move comes at a time when China is making substantial investments in quantum technology as part of its national strategy. The country’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) explicitly targets advancements in quantum information, quantum computing, and quantum sensing.
China has already established itself as a global leader in quantum communications and is rapidly closing the gap with the United States in quantum sensing.
The recruitment of top-tier talent like You Chenglong is a key component of this strategy, aiming to bolster domestic research capabilities and accelerate the development of next-generation quantum technologies.
The implications of this development are far-reaching. The field of quantum sensing, You’s area of expertise, holds the potential to revolutionize numerous sectors, from healthcare and navigation to national security. As China continues to attract leading researchers and pour resources into its quantum programs, the global landscape of scientific and technological innovation is set to become increasingly competitive.
References
[1] Leading quantum physicist You Chenglong joins cutting-edge Chinese research institute
[2] Chenglong You (由成龙) – Google Scholar
