Virginia Tech is setting up a new Institute for Advanced Computing in Alexandria. The university-wide institute will be based in Academic Building One, focusing on cutting-edge research and education in computing and technology.
Graduate programs in computer science and computer engineering will be offered at the institute. It’s also aiming to build strong partnerships with industry leaders and government organizations.
“I appreciate the leadership and guidance Dr. Collins has provided to establish a foundation upon which a truly distinguished program is being built,” said Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. “As Virginia’s land-grant research university, we are connecting the world’s best talent and partners to the commonwealth and bridging the gaps between academia, industry, and government in the greater D.C. area. This new institute strengthens a growing ecosystem of partners, professors, students, and peers working together to address global scale problems.”
The institute will zero in on key computing areas like AI, machine learning, and quantum computing. It’s also exploring advanced computing systems and applications, including next-gen wireless tech and smart interfaces.
Kirk Cameron, a computer science professor, is stepping in as the interim director. The university plans to kick off a national search for a permanent director this summer.
“The Institute for Advanced Computing is designed to produce world-class engineers, computer scientists, and business leaders to support the region’s booming technology sector,” said Cameron. “Research will be collaborative and engage community partners, taking full advantage of our location at the heart of the tech ecosystem and at the center of our federal government.”
Virginia Tech has also tweaked its branding for the Alexandria location. It’s now simply called Virginia Tech, dropping the “Innovation Campus” label.
