


About
Q-JAM is a game-prototyping summer program in which high school students take classic board games and reimagine them through the lens of quantum science and technologies. Working in teams, participants engage directly with foundational quantum concepts including superposition, entanglement, and measurement, as well as emerging technologies in quantum computing, communication, and sensing. They apply that understanding by modifying games such as Monopoly or Exploding Kittens to help players experience quantum opportunities and risks firsthand. For example, teams reimagine game mechanics so players feel the impact of quantum computing breaking encryption rather than just reading about it. Students brainstorm quantum scenarios, sketch ideas, build prototypes using accessible materials and digital fabrication tools such as 3D printers and laser cutters, playtest with peers, consult with quantum experts, and refine their designs before presenting their games at a final showcase event.


THE TEAM


Learning Scientist
Assistant Professor at School of
Computing and Information
& Research Scientist at Learning
Research and Development Center
University of Pittsburgh
Quantum Computer Scientist
& Theoretical Physicist
Assistant Professor at
School of Computing and Information
University of Pittsburgh

Elese Zukina
Undergrad
Physics and Quantum Computing
University of Pittsburgh

Theresa Vazapphilly
Undergrad
Information Science & Digital Narriative and Interactive Design
University of Pittsburgh

Finn Fitzgerald
Undergrad
Physics and Quantum Computing & Computer Science
University of Pittsburgh

Zack Ziegenfus
Undergrad
Physics and Quantum Computing
University of Pittsburgh

Tessa Wood
Undergrad
Computer Science
University of Pittsburgh

Brandon Yang
Undergrad
Computer Science
University of Pittsburgh

Jonathan Zhou
Undergrad
Computer Science
University of Pittsburgh

Ye Deng
PhD
Information Science
University of Pittsburgh
We're also welcoming back a spectacular group of high school students from last year's program. They're joining our team to help run and continue improving the camp.
Q-JAM is about community, belonging, joy, and the learning that happens when we build something meaningful together.

Collaborator
Chris Schunn
This summer camp benefited greatly from conversations with and feedback and suggestions from many colleagues: Roy Pea, Jinglei Cheng, Joshua Danish, Matthew Berland, Nathan Holbert, Marcelo Worsley, Kristin Borte, Ibrahim ('Joba) Adisa, Jen Iriti, Gayle Rogers, Jessica FitzPatrick, Dmitriy Babickenko, Mark Best, Abrahim Ahmed, Gabriela Lee, & Justin Bortnick.
CONTRIBUTORS
We're actively recruiting more amazing women contributors — more soon!

Research Assistant Professor
Department of Physics and Astronomy
University of Pittsburgh

Quantum Computing Education Manager

Professor
Department of Physics and Astronomy
University of Pittsburgh

Chief Commercial Officer

Associate Professor
Department of Physics and Astronomy
University of Pittsburgh

Distinguished Professor
Department of Physics and Astronomy
University of Pittsburgh

Deputy Scientific Director

Associate Professor
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Applied Physics
University of Michigan
STUDENT VOICES
“ It has helped me grow a stronger interest in engineering because it taught me how I can use quantum physics in many aspects.”
“ The camp helped me learn how to work through hard quantum concepts instead of giving up. When something was really challenging, I learned to ask questions, break it into smaller parts, and keep trying. It felt really rewarding once I understood it.”
“ More kids 13+ should definitely be able to attend. This camp is great for those who want to start understanding quantum, especially because they get to experience problems that mimic a real quantum job while also meeting new people with similar interests.”
Testimonials shared anonymously in accordance with research and privacy guidelines.

No prior experience in quantum, computing, or game design required!
Who can apply?
Students who will be enrolled in any high school within an Allegheny County school district next year.
1 .
At our Quantum Information Science Summer Camp, you’ll get a taste of the strange and exciting world of emerging quantum technology — the kind of tech that’s just starting to move from science labs to the real world. We’re talking about machines that can tackle problems way too complex for even the world’s fastest supercomputers, communication systems that are (in theory) impossible to hack, and sensors so powerful they could change how we explore and understand the universe. It’s weird. It’s mind-bending. And it’s just beginning — definitely not in your textbooks (yet).
2.
What if the principles you've always trusted, like the idea that something must have a definite position or state at a time, or that just looking at something doesn't change it, start to break down when you zoom in super, super small? What if the rules you spend years learning in school about how the world around you works are actually great approximations, but not the full story?
3.
This camp isn’t fully preset or predetermined — and that’s the point. Sure, quantum physicists trust the math and use it with total confidence to make predictions. But ask them what the math represents about reality, and even they’ll admit they’re still puzzled. At best, they’ll hit you with analogies — stories about coins that haven't yet decided whether they're heads or tails while flipping in the air, but somehow settle into one or the other when they land in your hand. Or gloves that stay mysteriously connected no matter how far apart you take them. And just when you think it’s all making sense, they’ll turn around and say, "But that’s not actually what’s happening." Push them a little more, and you’ll usually hear something like, "Honestly? No one really knows..." Q-JAM takes this as an invitation to explore. So lets just say "the pressure’s off for all of us." We’re here to wonder and learn together.
4.
Quantum physics probably isn’t something your school spends much time on yet — but it’s actually the science behind some of the most important tech in your life. In fact, it’s often called "the most successful theory science has ever produced" And here’s the wild part: it’s everywhere. The microchips in your phone or computer, the GPS that helps you find your way — none of it would work without quantum physics. And now, scientists and engineers are taking things even further. Quantum information science and technology — using the strange rules of quantum physics to process information in entirely new ways — is one of the fastest-growing professional fields today. And because there’s so much on the line, from world-changing tech to big security risks, the U.S. has made it one of its top priorities.
5.
You don’t need to be a science genius — just bring your curiosity and creativity. We’ll design games and imagine how this tech could change the world —for better or worse.





EXPLORE QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE
PROGRAM — WEEK 01*
Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1:00 - 5:00 |
PROGRAM — WEEK 02*
timetable | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
*Note: We will spend the summer finalizing the camp's program based on everything we learned with the help of some amazing undergraduate students engaging in design-based research. You can check the 2025 program to have an idea of what we'll be doing. Most of Week 1 will be preparation for the main activity of the camp, modifying a classic game to give it a quantum twist, starting toward the end of week 1 and continuing into week 2.
SUPPORTED BY:



JOIN Q-JAM
August 3-14
University of Pittsburgh







