University of Tennessee Research

The Knoxville Quantum Accelerator, also known as K‑Quantum, will accelerate quantum innovation from theory into real-world applications and economic impact across Tennessee. 

Theoretical Nuclear Physics professor Thomas Papenbrock studies atomic nuclei—the dense cores of atoms that make up matter and fuel the stars—using advanced theory, machine learning, and quantum computing to explore some of the universe's biggest questions. Papenbrock and his collaborators are developing models that help scientists better understand how matter behaves at its most basic level. Learn more at the link in the comments.

SmartSHOTS, created by Xueping Li and his team, combines systems-level thinking with expertise in coding, health science, public science communication, and user-friendly design to create a convenient app with big potential to improve health outcomes for Tennessee children.

Congratulations to Vasileios Maroulas, PhD, who has been named a 2026 Research Leader Fellow by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) Council on Research. The Fellowship helps rising research leaders develop expertise outside their current roles and fosters connections with an extensive network of senior research officers.

UT researchers use AI to analyze data, solve complex problems, and create innovative solutions that serve the state. These tools increase efficiencies and create more opportunities for meaningful work across disciplines. Check out the podcast for more!

With the eyes of the world on FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States, UT turfgrass experts are leading a first-of-its-kind research project, with nearly 200 experiments, to develop the best possible pitches. “Our goal is not only to understand turfgrass as plant scientists but to understand how athletes interact with it. Collaborating with FIFA aligns perfectly.”—John Sorochan, Distinguished Professor of Turfgrass Science and Management Read more about the science of turfgrass: https://bit.ly/42Lu5cC

This funding will support Dr. Bobba's nuclear medicine research and advance the development of safer and more effective treatment options for patients with advanced prostate cancer.

The unexpected discovery that dozens of bee and wasp species are magnetic raises more questions for future research and upends what we understand about how bees use their awareness of Earth's magnetic field.

Electricity powers nearly every aspect of modern life. As the nation’s energy landscape continues to evolve, keeping the grid stable is becoming more complex and more important every day. That’s where Yilu Liu is an expert. As a professor in the Min H. Kao Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science - University of Tennessee, Knoxvilleneering and Computer Science - University of Tennessee, Knoxville and a UT-ORNL Governor’s Chair for Power Systems, Liu studies how to keep the power grid safe, reliable, and affordable as new technologies reshape the energy landscape. Through collaborations with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and industry partners around the world, Liu is training the next generation of engineers while advancing solutions that impact millions of people every day. Learn more at the link in the comments.

Get insights into UT’s latest research news and breakthroughs with our LinkedIn Newsletter: Research Updates! UT Names New Governor’s Chair for Quantum Devices Five UT Faculty Teams Receive Chancellor’s Innovation Fund Awards Four UT Faculty Members Elected AAAS Fellows Kalinin Receives SEC Faculty Achievement Award Schwartzman Part of Team Awarded $1 Million Sloan Foundation Grant View the full content and subscribe: