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Quantum Sensing & Clocks Mini-Research Poster Session (IFCS 2026)

6 months ago
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IFCS 2026 CFP

Notice: Call for Papers

Quantum Sensing & Clocks Mini-Research Poster Session (IFCS 2026)

The IEEE International Frequency Control Symposium 2026 (IFCS 2026) will host a special themed poster session designed to spark curiosity and hands-on learning in the next generation of scientists and engineers: the Middle School / High School Quantum Sensing & Clocks Mini-Research Poster Session.

As an official component of IFCS 2026, this initiative invites middle and high school students to explore quantum sensing, clocks, and precision measurement through accessible, mentored mini-research projects. The session aligns with the IEEE Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control Society’s (IEEE Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control Society) commitment to STEM outreach, education, and early engagement with emerging technologies.

About the Mini-Research Poster Session

Participating students will submit a one-page abstract or project proposal describing a mini-research idea related to quantum sensing or clocks. Selected individuals or teams will then carry out their projects over 6–10 weeks, supported by structured feedback from an international panel of reviewers. Final posters will be presented to professional scientists and engineers during IFCS 2026 in Tampa, Florida.

Projects may be simulation-based, computational, conceptual, or simple hands-on experiments, and no specialized laboratory equipment is required—making participation accessible to a wide range of students and schools.

Key Dates

  • January 15, 2026 – Abstract/Proposal Submission Portal Opens

  • February 2, 2026 – Abstract/Proposal Submission Deadline

  • February 9, 2026 – Acceptance Decisions and Feedback Provided

  • February–May 2026 – Mini-Research Project Period

  • April 2026 – Reviewer Check-Ins and Structured Feedback

  • May 2026 – Poster Presentations at IFCS 2026 (in-person by default; e-poster/virtual options in planning)

Who Can Submit

  • Open to middle school and high school students, working individually or in teams.

  • A parent, guardian, or teacher must submit the proposal unless the student is 18 years or older and agrees to the submission terms.

Topics and Inspiration

Proposed projects may span a wide range of areas, including (but not limited to):

  • Quantum sensing and precision measurement

  • Atomic and optical clocks

  • Clock synchronization and timing networks

  • Quantum sensors for navigation, geophysics, and real-world applications

  • Noise, stability, metrology, and system integration

The Call-for-Papers flyer includes example project ideas tailored for both middle and high school levels, helping students and educators translate advanced concepts into approachable research activities.

Session Leadership

The session is chaired by Dr. Lin Yi, who will oversee the review process and student engagement throughout the program.

We encourage UFFC members, educators, parents, and mentors to share this opportunity broadly and support students interested in quantum science, sensing, and timekeeping. This session offers a unique chance for young learners to engage directly with the international IFCS community and experience what it means to do real scientific research—early in their academic journey.