Roadrunner Quantum Lab Appointed New Director

The facility has hired industry veteran David Kistin to lead its new Downtown Albuquerque workspace.

Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Quantum Computing

Isometric editorial illustration of neatly organized server racks and fiber optic cabling representing a high-tech research facility. — Roadrunner Quantum Lab has appointed former Sandia official David Kistin as director ahead of the opening of its new Downtown Albuquerque workspace next week. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Roadrunner Quantum Lab has tapped former Sandia National Laboratories official David Kistin to serve as its director. The organization will launch its new hub in Downtown Albuquerque next week.

Why it matters

The project represents a strategic effort to establish a permanent quantum technology ecosystem within New Mexico. By providing infrastructure for startups, organizers hope to cultivate long-term industry growth.

The new laboratory spans 35,000 square feet and was backed by a $25 million investment from the state of New Mexico. The facility offers dedicated space for founders to test technology and network with investors.

The players

David Kistin

He is the new director of Roadrunner Quantum Lab who previously spent over a decade at Sandia National Laboratories.

Roadrunner Venture Studios

This is the operating entity responsible for managing the new quantum laboratory in Albuquerque.

Sandia National Laboratories

This is a federally funded research and development center where David Kistin held a position for more than ten years.

The details

Roadrunner Venture Studios operates the lab, which has already served companies including Maybell Quantum, Qunnect, and QuEra. The initiative aims to foster local industry development over a 10 to 20-year horizon.

Roadrunner will open its new lab next week.
Entities are expected to commit to growing the industry over the next 10 to 20 years.

Roadmap

This facility extends the regional influence of the Sandia National Laboratories quantum research initiatives. It marks a shift toward commercializing research locally rather than exporting intellectual property to established tech hubs.

Local residents and tech workers may see increased professional opportunities as the facility opens its doors next week. The project aims to provide local startups with the necessary infrastructure to scale operations within New Mexico.

The takeaway

The success of this initiative hinges on the ability of the lab to retain startups in New Mexico over the coming two decades. Regional economic growth in the quantum sector relies on bridging the gap between early-stage research and long-term commercial sustainability.