Quantum Materials Corp. will move its tetrapod quantum dot laboratories to San Marcos this week to take advantage of facilities at STAR (Science Technology and Academic Research) Park. The signing was late last week, and production is expected to start within a month. STAR Park — located in the region known as “Silicon Hills” for its proximity to technology-related academic research, hi-tech corporations and entrepreneurial startups — is a nonprofit incubator with roots from nearby Texas State University. Its facilities feature “state-of-the-art equipment and, especially, the opportunities for collaborative research that emphasize commercialization,” said company President Stephen Squires. Texas State is creating a team environment for innovation by attracting faculty, encouraging cross-pollination across scientific disciplines, and supporting STAR Park’s growth environment. Its Material Science, Engineering and Commercialization doctoral program aims to advance nanotechnology, and it parallels Quantum Materials’ strategy to convert QD research into products. According to the 2012 Quantum Dot Global Forecast by MarketsandMarkets, QD sales could reach $7.48 billion by 2022 in a wide range of applications. “Quantum Materials is a great example of the kind of collaborative effort Texas State University is interested in creating through STAR Park,” said Steve Frayser, executive director of STAR Park. “The firm will have access to experienced faculty and specialized facilities that will support joint R&D efforts. Texas State students will be engaged with technology commercialization through internships and work opportunities.” The Greater San Marcos Partnership (GSMP) worked closely with Texas State and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development to secure Quantum Materials, which had considered many alternatives before selecting the San Marcos location. Quantum Materials represents “an expansion of the nanomaterials industry in our region, with the potential for additional firms to locate here in the future, creating new job opportunities,” said GSMP Chairman Will Conley. For more information, visit: www.qmcdots.com