Santa Barbara

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara will take part in three of the National Science Foundation's Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes, large-scale collaborations aimed at advancing quantum science and technology. The university is expected to contribute expertise in quantum computing, sensing and materials. The news comes as NSF invests heavily in building national quantum research networks across US universities.

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara will take part in three of the National Science Foundation's Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes, the university announced. The multi-institution institutes are part of the NSF's effort to advance quantum science and technology, and UCSB's involvement underscores its standing as a leading center for quantum research.

UC Santa Barbara is developing plans for a multifaceted climate solutions hub, made possible by a gift from alumni whose vision is driving the project. The hub is intended to bring together research, education and practical climate initiatives on campus. The announcement is drawing attention in local coverage of the university's growing role in climate work, though details of the gift's size and the hub's timeline have not been disclosed.

Shelly Lundberg, an economist at the University of California, Santa Barbara, has won the 2026 Mincer Award, recognizing her contributions to labor economics. The announcement coincides with the release of her new book. The Mincer Award honors major scholarly achievement in the field, and Lundberg's work on family economics and household decision-making has long been influential among economists.

UC Santa Barbara is planning a multifaceted climate solutions hub, made possible by an alumni gift and the donor's vision. The center is intended to bring together research and practical approaches to addressing climate change on campus. Details about the size of the gift, the donors, and a timeline for the hub have not yet been made public.