AQFS Research and Training Lab

Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Fusion Energy, and Semiconductors (AQFS) Research and Training Lab

The AQFS Laboratory is dedicated to advancing scientific discovery, technological innovation, and national resilience by conducting interdisciplinary research in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Fusion Energy, and Semiconductors. As part of the CSUSB College of Natural Sciences, the lab provides a platform for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematic (STEM) students and faculty to engage in impactful research that addresses emerging global challenges and prepares students for high-demand careers in national security and advanced technologies. AQFS Lab activities supported by grant Award from Union Pacific Community Ties Giving Program to facilitate faculty research and training activities of students for workforce development. Lab activities are also supported by Vital and Expanded Technologies Initiative (VETI) 2025 Grant Award providing faculty and students with technological resources and equipment needed in support of instruction and research..

Student Engagement and Opportunities

The AQFS Lab is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where students can explore research interests, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop professional competencies. Opportunities include:

• Undergraduate and graduate research assistantships
• Faculty-mentored research projects
• Capstone project support
• Access to advanced software, computing platforms, and laboratory resources
• Workshops, seminars, and research symposia
• Guidance on conference participation and scholarly publication

Students are encouraged to participate in ongoing initiatives or propose new ideas aligned with the lab’s research objectives.

Research Focus Areas

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The lab conducts research in the development and application of AI technologies across a range of domains. Current focus areas include:

• Machine learning and neural network architectures
• Large language models (LLMs) and generative AI
• AI ethics, safety, and explainability
• AI applications in scientific discovery, decision support, and defense systems

Students work with industry-standard tools such as Python, PyTorch, TensorFlow, and Hugging Face to develop AI models and explore real-world use cases.

• Cybersecurity Training
• Cyber Infrastructure Training
• High Performance Computing Training

Quantum Computing

Quantum computing holds the potential to solve complex problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Research activities include:

• Quantum algorithm development
• Quantum circuit simulation and logic gate modeling
• Quantum-enhanced machine learning techniques
• Quantum cryptography and post-quantum security frameworks

Students utilize platforms such as IBM Qiskit and Google Cirq to design and simulate quantum systems.
 

Fusion Energy

Fusion energy research is central to achieving clean, sustainable power sources. Although traditionally rooted in physics, computer science students contribute by:

• Simulating plasma dynamics and reactor behavior
• Developing machine learning models for control and prediction
• Designing software tools for experimental data analysis
• Collaborating on multidisciplinary energy modeling initiatives

These projects often involve high-performance computing and data visualization technologies.

Semiconductor Systems

Semiconductors underpin modern digital infrastructure and are essential to national security and economic competitiveness. The lab explores:

• AI-assisted integrated circuit (IC) and chip design
• Embedded systems and secure hardware architectures
• Energy-efficient logic systems
• Simulation and modeling of fabrication processes

Students gain hands-on experience with digital design, VLSI concepts, and hardware/software integration.

Current Participants:

AI Research Opportunity – Open Year-Round!

Join the AQFS Lab for an unpaid undergraduate research experience in Artificial Intelligence. No prior research experience required—just curiosity and commitment!

Topics:

• AI Jailbreaking: Study how people bypass AI safety tools like ChatGPT.
• AI Agents: Build simple autonomous systems that plan and solve tasks.

Details: Open to all Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) undergraduate students (all years)

• Time: ~3 hrs/day, flexible
• Location: Remote on Zoom
• Availability: Year-round, including summer

To Apply:

Email Dr. Alzahrani at alzahran@csusb.edu

Subject: AI Research Opportunity

Include a short note about your interest.

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