Podcasts about quantum chemistry

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, Sebastian talks with Hrant Gharibyan, CEO and co‑founder of BlueQubit, about “peaked circuits” and the challenge of verifying quantum advantage. They unpack Scott Aaronson and Yushuai Zhang's original peaked‑circuit proposal, BlueQubit's scalable implementation on real hardware, and a new public challenge that invites the community to attack their construction using the best classical algorithms available. Along the way, they explore how this line of work connects to cryptography, hardness assumptions, and the near‑term role of quantum devices as powerful scientific instruments.Topics CoveredWhy verifying quantum advantage is hard The core problem: if a quantum device claims to solve a task that is classi-cally intractable, how can anyone check that it did the right thing? Random circuit sampling (as in Google's 2019 “supremacy” experiment and follow‑on work from Google and Quantinuum) is believed to be classically hard to simulate, but the verification metrics (like cross‑entropy benchmarking) are themselves classically intractable at scale.What are peaked circuits? Aaronson and Zhang's idea: construct circuits that look like random circuits in every respect, but whose output distribution secretly has one special bit string with an anomalously high probability (the “peak”). The designer knows the secret bit string, so a quantum device can be verified by checking that measurement statistics visibly reveal the peak in a modest number of shots, while finding that same peak classically should be as hard as simulating a random circuit.BlueQubit's scalable construction and hardware demo BlueQubit extended the original 24‑qubit, simulator‑based peaked‑circuit construction to much larger sizes using new classical protocols. Hrant explains their protocol for building peaked circuits on Quantinuum's H2 processor with around 56 qubits, thousands of gates, and effectively all‑to‑all connectivity, while still hiding a single secret bit string that appears as a clear peak when run on the device.Obfuscation tricks and “quantum steganography” The team uses multiple obfuscation layers (including “swap” and “sweeping” tricks) to transform simple peaked circuits into ones that are statistically indistinguishable from generic random circuits, yet still preserve the hidden peak.The BlueQubit Quantum Advantage Challenge To stress‑test their hardness assumptions, BlueQubit has published concrete circuits and launched a public bounty (currently a quarter of a bitcoin) for anyone who can recover the secret bit string classically. The aim is to catalyze work on better classical simulation and de‑quantization techniques; either someone closes the gap (forcing the protocol to evolve) or the standing bounty helps establish public trust that the task really is classically infeasible.Potential cryptographic angles Although the main focus is verification of quantum advantage, Hrant outlines how the construction has a cryptographic flavor: a secret bit string effectively acts as a key, and only a sufficiently powerful quantum device can efficiently “decrypt” it by revealing the peak. Variants of the protocol could, in principle, yield schemes that are classically secure but only decryptable by quantum hardware, and even quantum‑plus‑key secure, though this remains speculative and secondary to the verification use case. From verification protocol to startup roadmap Hrant positions BlueQubit as an algorithm and capability company: deeply hardware‑aware, but focused on building and analyzing advantage‑style algorithms tailored to specific devices. The peaked‑circuit work is one pillar in a broader effort that includes near‑term scientific applications in condensed‑matter physics and materials (e.g., Fermi–Hubbard models and out‑of‑time‑ordered correlators) where quantum devices can already probe regimes beyond leading classical methods.Scientific advantage today, commercial advantage tomorrow Sebastian and Hrant emphasize that the first durable quantum advantages are likely to appear in scientific computing—acting as exotic lab instruments for physicists, chemists, and materials scientists—well before mass‑market “killer apps” arrive. Once robust, verifiable scientific advantage is established, scaling to larger models and more complex systems becomes a question of engineering, with clear lines of sight to industrial impact in sectors like pharmaceuticals, advanced materials, and manufacturing.The challenge: https://app.bluequbit.io/hackathons/

Episode overviewThis episode of The New Quantum Era features a conversation with Quantum Brilliance co‑founder and CEO Mark Luo and independent board chair Brian Wong about diamond nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers as a platform for both quantum computing and quantum sensing. The discussion covers how NV centers work, what makes diamond‑based qubits attractive at room temperature, and how to turn a lab technology into a scalable product and business.What are diamond NV qubits?  Mark explains how nitrogen vacancy centers in synthetic diamond act as stable room‑temperature qubits, with a nitrogen atom adjacent to a missing carbon atom creating a spin system that can be initialized and read out optically or electronically. The rigidity and thermal properties of diamond remove the need for cryogenics, complex laser setups, and vacuum systems, enabling compact, low‑power quantum devices that can be deployed in standard environments.Quantum sensing to quantum computing  NV centers are already enabling ultra‑sensitive sensing, from nanoscale MRI and quantum microscopy to magnetometry for GPS‑free navigation and neurotech applications using diamond chips under growing brain cells. Mark and Brian frame sensing not as a hedge but as a volume driver that builds the diamond supply chain, pushes costs down, and lays the manufacturing groundwork for future quantum computing chips.Fabrication, scalability, and the value chain  A key theme is the shift from early “shotgun” vacancy placement in diamond to a semiconductor‑style, wafer‑like process with high‑purity material, lithography, characterization, and yield engineering. Brian characterizes Quantum Brilliance's strategy as “lab to fab”: deciding where to sit in the value chain, leveraging the existing semiconductor ecosystem, and building a partner network rather than owning everything from chips to compilers.Devices, roadmaps, and hybrid nodes  Quantum Brilliance has deployed room‑temperature systems with a handful of physical qubits at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Fraunhofer IAF, and the Pawsey Supercomputing Centre. Their roadmap targets application‑specific quantum computing with useful qubit counts toward the end of this decade, and lunchbox‑scale, fault‑tolerant systems with on the order of 50–60 logical qubits in the mid‑2030s.Modality tradeoffs and business discipline  Mark positions diamond NV qubits as mid‑range in both speed and coherence time compared with superconducting and trapped‑ion systems, with their differentiator being compute density, energy efficiency, and ease of deployment rather than raw gate speed. Brian brings four decades of experience in semiconductors, batteries, lidar, and optical networking to emphasize milestones, early revenue from sensing, and usability—arguing that making quantum devices easy to integrate and operate is as important as the underlying physics for attracting partners, customers, and investors.Partners and ecosystem  The episode underscores how collaborations with institutions such as Oak Ridge, Fraunhofer, and Pawsey, along with industrial and defense partners, help refine real‑world requirements and ensure the technology solves concrete problems rather than just hitting abstract benchmarks. By co‑designing with end users and complementary hardware and software vendors, Quantum Brilliance aims to “democratize” access to quantum devices, moving them from specialized cryogenic labs to desks, edge systems, and embedded platforms.

Why do molecules have a "handedness" when the physics that determines their structure does not?* This is a question emblematic of the philosophy of chemistry; at times, it has been used to argue that chemistry cannot be reduced to physics. However, Vanessa Seifert has a different — yet equally intriguing — answer. This symmetry breaking is closely linked to that contentious area of quantum mechanics: the measurement problem. Vanessa is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellow based at the University of Athens and a visiting fellow at the University of Bristol. In addition to molecules, we discuss the project of reductionism, laws, and alchemy. I found this to be a wonderful example of the fruitfulness of turning the philosophical gaze to sciences beyond physics.*(Note, it can't be explained by the chirality of the weak nuclear force)Linksvanessa-seifert.com has links to Vanessa's publications and popular writing — her articles on philosophy in Chemistry World are a great introduction to a broad range of topicsmultiverses.xyz Multiverses home

Episode overviewJohn Martinis, Nobel laureate and former head of Google's quantum hardware effort, joins Sebastian Hassinger on The New Quantum Era to trace the arc of superconducting quantum circuits—from the first demonstrations of macroscopic quantum tunneling in the 1980s to today's push for wafer-scale, manufacturable qubit processors. The episode weaves together the physics of “synthetic atoms” built from Josephson junctions, the engineering mindset needed to turn them into reliable computers, and what it will take for fabrication to unlock true large-scale quantum systems.Guest bioJohn M. Martinis is a physicist whose experiments on superconducting circuits with John Clarke and Michel Devoret at UC Berkeley established that a macroscopic electrical circuit can exhibit quantum tunneling and discrete energy levels, work recognized by the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics “for the discovery of macroscopic quantum mechanical tunnelling and energy quantisation in an electric circuit.” He went on to lead the superconducting quantum computing effort at Google, where his team demonstrated large-scale, programmable transmon-based processors, and now heads Qolab (also referred to in the episode as CoLab), a startup focused on advanced fabrication and wafer-scale integration of superconducting qubits.Martinis's career sits at the intersection of precision instrumentation and systems engineering, drawing on a scientific “family tree” that runs from Cambridge through John Clarke's group at Berkeley, with strong theoretical influence from Michel Devoret and deep exposure to ion-trap work by Dave Wineland and Chris Monroe at NIST. Today his work emphasizes solving the hardest fabrication and wiring challenges—pursuing high-yield, monolithic, wafer-scale quantum processors that can ultimately host tens of thousands of reproducible qubits on a single 300 mm wafer.Key topicsMacroscopic quantum tunneling on a chip: How Clarke, Devoret, and Martinis used a current-biased Josephson junction to show that a macroscopic circuit variable obeys quantum mechanics, with microwave control revealing discrete energy levels and tunneling between states—laying the groundwork for superconducting qubits. The episode connects this early work directly to the Nobel committee's citation and to today's use of Josephson circuits as “synthetic atoms” for quantum computing.From DC devices to microwave qubits: Why early Josephson devices were treated as low-frequency, DC elements, and how failed experiments pushed Martinis and collaborators to re-engineer their setups with careful microwave filtering, impedance control, and dilution refrigerators—turning noisy circuits into clean, quantized systems suitable for qubits. This shift to microwave control and readout becomes the through-line from macroscopic tunneling experiments to modern transmon qubits and multi-qubit gates.Synthetic atoms vs natural atoms: The contrast between macroscopic “synthetic atoms” built from capacitors, inductors, and Josephson junctions and natural atomic systems used in ion-trap and neutral-atom experiments by groups such as Wineland and Monroe at NIST, where single-atom control made the quantum nature more obvious. The conversation highlights how both approaches converged on single-particle control, but with very different technological paths and community cultures.Ten-year learning curve for devices: How roughly a decade of experiments on quantum noise, energy levels, and escape rates in superconducting devices built confidence that these circuits were “clean enough” to support serious qubit experiments, just as early demonstrations such as Yasunobu Nakamura's single-Cooper-pair box showed clear two-level behavior. This foundational work set the stage for the modern era of superconducting quantum computing across academia and industry.Surface code and systems thinking: Why Martinis immersed himself in the surface code, co-authoring a widely cited tutorial-style paper “Surface codes: Towards practical large-scale quantum computation” (Austin G. Fowler, Matteo Mariantoni, John M. Martinis, Andrew N. Cleland, Phys. Rev. A 86, 032324, 2012; arXiv:1208.0928), to translate error-correction theory into something experimentalists could build. He describes this as a turning point that reframed his work at UC Santa Barbara and Google around full-system design rather than isolated device physics.Fabrication as the new frontier: Martinis argues that the physics of decent transmon-style qubits is now well understood and that the real bottleneck is industrial-grade fabrication and wiring, not inventing ever more qubit variants. His company's roadmap targets wafer-scale integration—e.g., ~100-qubit test chips scaling toward ~20,000 qubits on a 300 mm wafer—with a focus on yield, junction reproducibility, and integrated escape wiring rather than current approaches that tile many 100-qubit dies into larger systems.From lab racks of cables to true integrated circuits: The episode contrasts today's dilution-refrigerator setups—dominated by bulky wiring and discrete microwave components—with the vision of a highly integrated superconducting “IC” where most of that wiring is brought on-chip. Martinis likens the current state to pre-IC TTL logic full of hand-wired boards and sees monolithic quantum chips as the necessary analog of CMOS integration for classical computing.Venture timelines vs physics timelines: A candid discussion of the mismatch between typical three-to-five-year venture capital expectations and the multi-decade arc of foundational technologies like CMOS and, now, quantum computing. Martinis suggests that the most transformative work—such as radically improved junction fabrication—looks slow and uncompetitive in the short term but can yield step-change advantages once it matures.Physics vs systems-engineering mindsets: How Martinis's “instrumentation family tree” and exposure to both American “build first, then understand” and French “analyze first, then build” traditions shaped his approach, and how system engineering often pushes him to challenge ideas that don't scale. He frames this dual mindset as both a superpower and a source of tension when working in large organizations used to more incremental science-driven projects.Collaboration, competition, and pre-competitive science: Reflections on the early years when groups at Berkeley, Saclay, UCSB, NIST, and elsewhere shared results openly, pushing the field forward without cut-throat scooping, before activity moved into more corporate settings around 2010. Martinis emphasizes that many of the hardest scaling problems—especially in materials and fabrication—would benefit from deeper cross-organization collaboration, even as current business constraints limit what can be shared.Papers and research discussed“Energy-Level Quantization in the Zero-Voltage State of a Current-Biased Josephson Junction” – John M. Martinis, Michel H. Devoret, John Clarke, Physical Review Letters 55, 1543 (1985). First clear observation of quantized energy levels and macroscopic quantum tunneling in a Josephson circuit, forming a core part of the work recognized by the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics. Link: https://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevLett.55.1543“Quantum Mechanics of a Macroscopic Variable: The Phase Difference of a Josephson Junction” – J. Clarke et al., Science 239, 992 (1988). Further development of macroscopic quantum tunneling and wave-packet dynamics in current-biased Josephson junctions, demonstrating that a circuit-scale degree of freedom behaves as a quantum variable. Link (PDF via Cleland group):

Welcome to a new episode of Impact Quantum! In today's show, host Frank La Vigne and co-host Candice Gillhoolley dive deep into the fascinating world of quantum chemistry with special guest Natasa Nadoveza, who recently completed her PhD in this cutting-edge field. Together, they unpack what nuclear quantum dynamics is, explore its significance in understanding molecular processes, and discuss how quantum-level simulation could revolutionize industries ranging from medicine and drug discovery to energy and materials science.Throughout the conversation, you'll hear about the very real challenges of translating theoretical breakthroughs into practical tools, especially when it comes to scaling simulations beyond simple molecules. Natasa Nadoveza shares her journey from chemistry student to quantum researcher, and reveals some of the surprising quirks and behaviors of molecules when you look at them through a quantum lens.Whether you're quantum-curious or a science enthusiast, this episode will ignite your imagination with stories about catalytic processes, energy transfer, and even the quantum mysteries behind everyday things like color, smell, and photosynthesis. If you've ever wondered what it takes to run a multi-step simulation on a supercomputer, or how science—especially quantum science—continues to challenge our understanding of the world, you'll find plenty to geek out over in this illuminating discussion!Time Stamps00:00 "Impact Quantum: Quantum Chemistry Insights"05:22 "Methane Study Challenges in Theory"07:45 Quantum Effects and Drug Discovery11:44 "Catalysts: Reducing Energy Barriers"14:46 Molecular Bond Simulation Insights18:31 Quantized Energy in Molecules24:01 Quantum Effects and Everyday Relevance25:16 Quantum Chemistry and Reactivity Essentials29:24 Heat and Electrical Conductivity Explained31:37 "Challenges of Running Simulations"36:30 "Challenges in Intuitively Learning Quantum"39:44 "Data Compression Challenges in Simulation"42:19 "Exploring Industry vs. Academia"

Thomas Monz, CEO of AQT (Alpine Quantum Technologies), joins Sebastian Hassinger on The New Quantum Era to chart the evolution of ion-trap quantum computing — from the earliest breakthroughs in Innsbruck to the latest roll-outs in supercomputing centers and on the cloud. Drawing on a career that spans pioneering research and entrepreneurial grit, Thomas details how AQT is bridging the gap between academic innovation and practical, scalable systems for real-world users. The conversation traverses AQT's trajectory from component supplier to systems integrator, how standard 19-inch racks and open APIs are making quantum computing accessible in Europe's top HPC centers, what Thomas anticipates from AQT launching on Amazon Braket, a quantum computing service from AWS, and what it will take for quantum to deliver genuine economic value.Guest Bio  Thomas Monz is the CEO and co-founder of AQT. A physicist by training, his work has helped transform trapped-ion quantum computing from a fundamental research topic into a commercially viable technology. After formative stints in quantum networks, high-precision measurement, and hands-on engineering, Thomas launched AQT alongside Peter Zoller and Rainer Blatt to make robust, scalable quantum computers available far beyond the university lab. He continues to be deeply engaged in both hardware development and quantum error correction research, with AQT now deploying systems at EuroHPC centers and bringing devices to Amazon Braket.Key Topics  From research prototype to rack-ready: How the pain points converting lab experiments into user-friendly hardware led AQT to build its quantum computers in the same form factors and standards as classical infrastructure, making plug-and-play integration with the supercomputing world possible.  Hybrid quantum–HPC deployments: Why systems-level thinking and classic IT lessons (such as respecting 19-inch rack and power standards) have enabled AQT to place ion-trap quantum computers in Germany and Poland as part of the EuroHPC initiative — and why abstraction at the API level is essential for developer adoption.  Error correction and code flexibility: How the physical properties of trapped ions let AQT remain agnostic to changing error-correcting codes (from repetition and surface codes to LDPC), enabling swift adaptation to new breakthroughs via software rather than expensive new hardware — and why end-users should never have to think about error correction themselves.  Scaling and networking: The challenges moving from one-dimensional to two-dimensional traps, the emerging role of integrated photonics, and AQT's vision for interconnecting quantum computers within and across HPC sites using telecom-wavelength photons.  From local to cloud: What AQT's move to Amazon Braket means for the range and sophistication of end-user applications, and how broad commercial access is shifting priorities from scientific exploration to real-world performance and customer-driven features.  Collaboration as leverage: How AQT's open approach to integration—letting partners handle job scheduling, APIs, and orchestration—positions it as a technology supplier while benefiting from advances across Europe's quantum ecosystem.Why It Matters  AQT's journey illustrates how “physics-first” quantum innovation is finally crossing into scalable, reliable real-world systems. By prioritizing integration, user experience, and abstraction, AQT is closing the gap between experimental platforms and actionable quantum advantage. From better error rates and hybrid deployments to global cloud infrastructure, the work Thomas describes signals a maturing industry rapidly moving toward both commercial impact and new scientific discoveries.Episode Highlights  How Thomas's PhD work helped implement the first three-qubit ion-trap gates and formed the foundation for AQT's technical strategy.  The pivotal insight: moving from bespoke lab systems to standardized products allowed quantum hardware to be deployed at scale.  The surprisingly smooth physical deployment of AQT machines across Europe, thanks to a “box-on-a-truck” design.  Real talk on error correction, the importance of LDPC codes, and the flexibility built into trapped-ion architectures.  The future of quantum networking: sending entangled photons between HPC facilities, and the promise of scalable cluster architectures.  What cloud access brings to the roadmap, including new end-user requirements and opportunities for innovation in error correction as a service.---- This episode offers an insider's perspective on the tight coupling of science and engineering required to bring quantum computing out of the lab and into industry. Thomas's journey is a case study in building both technology and market readiness — critical listening for anyone tracking the real-world ascent of quantum computers. In the spirit of full disclosure, Sebastian is an employee of AWS, working on quantum computing for the company, though he is not a member of the Braket service team. 

Quantum Materials and Nano-Fabrication with Javad ShabaniGuest: Dr. Javad Shabani is Professor of Physics at NYU, where he directs both the Center for Quantum Information Physics and the NYU Quantum Institute. He received his PhD from Princeton University in 2011, followed by postdoctoral research at Harvard and UC Santa Barbara in collaboration with Microsoft Research. His research focuses on novel states of matter at superconductor-semiconductor interfaces, mesoscopic physics in low-dimensional systems, and quantum device development. He is an expert in molecular beam epitaxy growth of hybrid quantum materials and has made pioneering contributions to understanding fractional quantum Hall states and topological superconductivity.Episode OverviewProfessor Javad Shabani shares his journey from electrical engineering to the frontiers of quantum materials research, discussing his pioneering work on semiconductor-superconductor hybrid systems, topological qubits, and the development of scalable quantum device fabrication techniques. The conversation explores his current work at NYU, including breakthrough research on germanium-based Josephson junctions and the launch of the NYU Quantum Institute.Key Topics DiscussedEarly Career and Quantum JourneyJavad describes his unconventional path into quantum physics, beginning with a double major in electrical engineering and physics at Sharif University of Technology after discovering John Preskill's open quantum information textbook. His graduate work at Princeton focused on the quantum Hall effect, particularly investigating the enigmatic five-halves fractional quantum Hall state and its potential connection to non-abelian anyons.From Spin Qubits to Topological Quantum ComputingDuring his PhD, Javad worked with Jason Petta and Mansur Shayegan on early spin qubit experiments, experiencing firsthand the challenge of controlling single quantum dots. His postdoctoral work at Harvard with Charlie Marcus focused on scaling from one to two qubits, revealing the immense complexity of nanofabrication and materials science required for quantum control. This experience led him to topological superconductivity at UC Santa Barbara, where he collaborated with Microsoft Research on semiconductor-superconductor heterostructures.Planar Josephson Junctions and Material InnovationAt NYU, Javad's group developed planar two-dimensional Josephson junctions using indium arsenide semiconductors with aluminum superconductors, moving away from one-dimensional nanowires toward more scalable fabrication approaches. In 2018-2019, his team published groundbreaking results in Physical Review Letters showing signatures of topological phase transitions in these hybrid systems.Gatemon Qubits and Hybrid SystemsThe conversation explores Javad's recent work on gatemon qubits—gate-tunable superconducting transmon qubits that leverage semiconductor properties for fast switching in the nanosecond regime. While indium arsenide's piezoelectric properties may limit qubit coherence, the material shows promise as a fast coupler between qubits. This research, published in Physical Review X, represents a convergence of superconducting circuit techniques with semiconductor physics.Breakthrough in Germanium-Based DevicesJavad reveals exciting forthcoming research accepted in Nature Nanotechnology on creating vertical Josephson junctions entirely from germanium. By doping germanium with gallium to make it superconducting, then alternating with undoped semiconducting germanium, his team has achieved wafer-scale fabrication of three-layer superconductor-semiconductor-superconductor junctions. This approach enables placing potentially 20 million junctions on a single wafer, opening pathways toward CMOS-compatible quantum device manufacturing.NYU Quantum Institute and Regional EcosystemThe episode discusses the launch of the NYU Quantum Institute under Javad's leadership, designed to coordinate quantum research across physics, engineering, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science. The Institute aims to connect fundamental research with application-focused partners in finance, insurance, healthcare, and communications throughout New York City. Javad describes NYU's quantum networking project with five nodes across Manhattan and Brooklyn, leveraging NYU's distributed campus fiber infrastructure for short-distance quantum communication.Academic Collaboration and the New York Quantum EcosystemJavad explains how NYU collaborates with Columbia, Princeton, Yale, Cornell, RPI, Stevens Institute, and City College to build a Northeast quantum corridor. The annual New York Quantum Summit (now in its fourth year) brings together academics, government labs including AFRL and Brookhaven, consulting firms, and industry partners. This regional approach complements established hubs like the Chicago Quantum Exchange while addressing New York's unique strengths in finance and dense urban infrastructure.Materials Science Challenges and InterfacesThe conversation delves into fundamental materials science puzzles, particularly the asymmetric nature of material interfaces. Javad explains how material A may grow well on material B, but B cannot grow on A due to polar interface incompatibilities—a critical challenge for vertical device fabrication. He draws parallels to aluminum oxide Josephson junctions, where the bottom interface is crystalline but the top interface grows on amorphous oxide, potentially contributing to two-level system noise.Industry Integration and Practical ApplicationsJavad discusses NYU's connections to chip manufacturing through the CHIPS Act, linking academic research with 200-300mm wafer-scale operations at NY Creates. His group also participates in the Co-design Center for Quantum Advantage (C2QA)  based at Brookhaven National Laboratory.Notable Quotes"Behind every great experimentalist, there is a greater theorist.""A lot of these kind of application things, the end users are basically in big cities, including New York...people who care at finance financial institutions, people like insurance, medical for sensing and communication.""You don't wanna spend time on doing the exact same thing...but I do feel we need to be more and bigger."

Vijoy Pandey joins Sebastian Hassinger for this episode of The New Quantum Era to discuss Cisco's ambitious vision for quantum networking—not as a far-future technology, but as infrastructure that solves real problems today. Leading Outshift by Cisco, their incubation group and Cisco Research, Vijoy explains how quantum networks are closer than quantum computers, why distributed quantum computing is the path to scale, and how entanglement-based protocols can tackle immediate classical challenges in security, synchronization, and coordination. The conversation spans from Vijoy's origin story building a Hindi chatbot in the late 1980s to Cisco's groundbreaking room-temperature quantum entanglement chip developed with UC Santa Barbara, and explores use cases from high-frequency trading to telescope array synchronization.Guest BioVijoy Pandey is Senior Vice President at Outshift by Cisco, the company's internal incubation group, where he also leads Cisco Research and Cisco Developer Relations (DevNet). His career in computing began in high school building AI chatbots, eventually leading him through distributed systems and software engineering roles including time at Google. At Cisco, Vijoy oversees a portfolio spanning quantum networking, security, observability, and emerging technologies, operating at the intersection of research and product incubation within the company's Chief Strategy Office.Key TopicsFrom research to systems: How Cisco's quantum work is transitioning from physics research to systems engineering, focusing on operability, deployment, and practical applications rather than building quantum computers.The distributed quantum computing vision: Cisco's North Star is building quantum network fabric that enables scale-out distributed quantum computing across heterogeneous QPU technologies (trapped ion, superconducting, etc.) within data centers and between them—making "the quantum network the solution" to quantum's scaling problem and classical computing's physics problem.Room-temperature entanglement chip: Cisco and UC Santa Barbara developed a prototype photonic chip that generates 200 million entangled photon pairs per second at room temperature, telecom wavelengths, and less than 1 milliwatt power—enabling deployment on existing fiber infrastructure without specialized equipment.Classical use cases today: How quantum networking protocols solve present-day problems in synchronization (global database clocks, telescope arrays), decision coordination (high-frequency trading across geographically distributed exchanges), and security (intrusion detection using entanglement collapse) without requiring massive qubit counts or cryogenic systems.Quantum telepathy for HFT: The concept of using entanglement and teleportation to coordinate decisions across locations faster than the speed of light allows classical communication—enabling fairness guarantees for high-frequency trading across data centers in different cities.Meeting customers where they are: Cisco's strategy to deploy quantum networking capabilities alongside existing classical infrastructure, supporting a spectrum from standard TLS to post-quantum cryptography to QKD, rather than requiring greenfield deployments.The transduction grand challenge: Why building the "NIC card" that connects quantum processors to quantum networks—the transducer—is the critical bottleneck for distributed quantum computing and the key technical risk Cisco is addressing.Product-company fit in corporate innovation: How Outshift operates like internal startups within Cisco, focusing on problems adjacent to the company's four pillars (networking, security, observability, collaboration) with both technology risk and market risk, while maintaining agility through a framework adapted from Cisco's acquisition integration playbook.Why It MattersCisco's systems-level approach to quantum networking represents a paradigm shift from viewing quantum as distant future technology to infrastructure deployable today for specific high-value use cases. By focusing on room-temperature, telecom-compatible entanglement sources and software stacks that integrate with existing networks, Cisco is positioning quantum networking as the bridge between classical and quantum computing worlds—potentially accelerating practical quantum applications from decades away to 5-10 years while solving immediate enterprise challenges in security and coordination.Episode HighlightsVijoy's journey from building Hindi chatbots on a BBC Micro in the late 1980s to leading quantum innovation at Cisco. Why quantum networking is "here and now" while quantum computing is still being figured out. The spectrum of quantum network applications: from near-term classical coordination problems to the long-term quantum internet connecting quantum data centers and sensors. How entanglement enables provable intrusion detection on standard fiber networks alongside classical IP traffic. The "step function moment" coming for quantum: why the transition from physics to systems engineering means a ChatGPT-like breakthrough is imminent, and why this one will be harder to catch up on than software-based revolutions. Design partner collaborations with financial services, federal agencies, and energy companies on security and synchronization use cases.Cisco's quantum software stack prototypes: Quantum Compiler (for distributed quantum error correction), Quantum Alert (security), and QuantumSync (decision coordination).

This episode is a first for the show - a repeat of a previously posted interview on The New Quantum Era podcast! I think you'll agree the reason for the repeat is a great one - this episode, recorded at the APS Global Summit in March, features a conversation John Martinis, co-founder and CTO of QoLab and newly minted Nobel Laureate! Last week the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences made an announcement that John would share the 2025 Nobel Prize for Physics with John Clarke and Michel Devoret “for the discovery of macroscopic quantum mechanical tunnelling and energy quantisation in an electric circuit.” It should come as no surprise that John and I talked about macroscopic quantum mechanical tunnelling and energy quantization in electrical circuits, since those are precisely the attributes that make a superconducting qubit work for computation.  The work John is doing at Qolab, a superconducting qubit company seeking to build a million qubit device, is really impressive, as befits a Nobel Laureate and a pioneer in the field. In our conversation we explore the strategic shifts, collaborative efforts, and technological innovations that are pushing the boundaries of quantum computing closer to building scalable, million-qubit systems. Key HighlightsEmerging from Stealth Mode & Million-Qubit System Paper:Discussion on QoLab's transition from stealth mode and their comprehensive paper on building scalable million-qubit systems.Focus on a systematic approach covering the entire stack.Collaboration with Semiconductor Companies:Unique business model emphasizing collaboration with semiconductor companies to leverage external expertise.Comparison with bigger players like Google, who can fund the entire stack internally.Innovative Technological Approaches:Integration of wafer-scale technology and advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes.Emphasis on adjustable qubits and adjustable couplers for optimizing control and scalability.Scaling Challenges and Solutions:Strategies for achieving scale, including using large dilution refrigerators and exploring optical communication for modular design.Plans to address error correction and wiring challenges using brute force scaling and advanced materials.Future Vision and Speeding Up Development:QoLab's goal to significantly accelerate the timeline toward achieving a million-qubit system.Insight into collaborations with HP Enterprises, NVIDIA, Quantum Machines, and others to combine expertise in hardware and software.Research Papers Mentioned in this Episode:Position paper on building scalable million-qubit systems 

Hello and welcome to Entangled! The podcast where we explore the science of consciousness, the true nature of reality, and what it means to be a spiritual being having a spiritual experience. I'm your host Jordan Youkilis, and today I'm joined by my friend Gretchen Marteney.In this episode, Gretchen discusses how her exploration of consciousness brought back into her life the joy and mystery of childhood and how the passing of her father at an early age opened up the portal to other spiritual realms for her. From there, we discuss false flags and examples in modern times of governments orchestrating covert operations with the intent of disguising the actual source of responsibility and pinning blame on other parties.“Remember, remember! The fifth of November, The Gunpowder treason and plot; I know of no reason, Why the Gunpowder treason, Should ever be forgot!”Next, we discuss how freeing oneself from the fear of death can serve as the first step in freedom from control. From there, we discuss the Russian and Ukrainian conflict and the motivating factors behind Donald Trump's presidential campaigns. We then talk about the importance of open discourse and freedom of speech, including for topics considered taboo and controversial.From there, we talk about the power of letting go and the importance of neuro-linguistic programming in shaping our physiology. Next, we discuss this unique point in time in humanity's evolution where we're on the brink of experiencing a quantum leap forward. We then discuss new discoveries in science helping to bridge the 3rd dimensional quantum physics paradigm with which we've grown accustomed to the 5th dimensional paradigm rooted in consciousness. We end the discussion on the importance of asking questions on the journey of self-discovery and the structure of the galactic federation.Music from the show is available on the Spotify playlist “Entangled – The Vibes”. If you like the show, please drop a 5-star review and subscribe on Substack, Spotify, X, Apple, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts.Gretchen and I discuss a number of controversial topics in this interview. I adhere to the principle that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. Because of this, I decided to write an outro and provide receipts for everything we covered. Three and a half years later, I realized it was just time to send it. So, I tabled that essay, although much of the research was leveraged in a piece I wrote a few months ago, “The Great Work”, episodes 88-89. Instead, this outro will continue in the next episode with a more time sensitive topic – “Rest in Peace, Charlie Kirk.”Please enjoy the episode.Music: Intro: Ben Fox - “The Vibe”. End Credits: The Lonely Ramblers – “We're Just Getting Started.”Recorded: 02/24/2022 & 03/03/2022. Published: 10/13/2025.Outro: “Rest in Peace, Charlie Kirk (Starts at Episode 93)”.Check out the resources mentioned:* The Spirits' Book by Allan Kardec: https://allankardec.org/books/the-spirits-book/* Letting Go by Dr. David Hawkins: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16098910-letting-go* Power vs. Force by Dr. David Hawkins: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19795.Power_vs_Force* False Flags by Richard Dolan: https://www.gaia.com/series/false-flags* Confessions of an Economic Hit Man by John Perkins: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2159.Confessions_of_an_Economic_Hit_Man* Your Soul's Plan by Robert Schwartz: https://yoursoulsplan.com/books/your-souls-plan/* V for Vendetta: https://www.amazon.com/V-Vendetta-Natalie-Portman/dp/B000HVHM5S This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit entangledpodcast.substack.com

Pierre Desjardins is the cofounder of C12, a Paris-based quantum computing hardware startup that specializes in carbon nanotube-based spin qubits. Notably, Pierre founded the company alongside his twin brother, Mathieu, making them the only twin-led deep-tech startups that we know of! Pierre's journey is unconventional—he is a rare founder in quantum hardware without a PhD, drawing instead on engineering and entrepreneurial experience. The episode dives into what drew him to quantum computing and the pivotal role COVID-19 played in catalyzing his career shift from consulting to quantum technology.C12's Technology and Unique AngleC12 focuses on developing high-performance qubits using single-wall carbon nanotubes. Unlike companies centered on silicon or germanium spin qubits, C12 fabricates carbon nanotubes, tests them for impurities, and then assembles them on silicon chips as a final step. The team exclusively uses isotopically pure carbon-12 to minimize magnetic and nuclear spin noise, yielding a uniquely clean environment for electron confinement. This yields ultra-low charge noise and enables the company to build highly coherent qubits with remarkable material purity.Key Technical InnovationsSpin-Photon Coupling: C12's system stands out for driving spin qubits using microwave photons, drawing inspiration from superconducting qubit architectures. This enables the implementation of a “quantum bus”—a superconducting interconnect that allows long-range coupling between distant qubits, sidestepping the scaling bottleneck of nearest-neighbor architectures.Addressable Qubits: Each carbon nanotube qubit can be tuned on or off the quantum bus by manipulating the double quantum dot confinement, providing flexible connectivity and the ability to maximize coherence in a memory mode.Stability and Purity: Pierre emphasizes that C12's suspended architecture dramatically reduces charge noise and results in exceptional stability, with minimal calibration drift, over years-long measurement campaigns—a stark contrast with many superconducting platforms.Recent MilestonesC12 celebrated its fifth anniversary and recently demonstrated the first qubit operation on their platform. The company achieved ultra-long coherence times for spin qubits coupled via a quantum bus, publishing these results in *Nature*. The next milestone is demonstrating two-qubit gates mediated by microwave photons—a development that could set a new benchmark for both C12 and the wider quantum computing industry.Challenges and OutlookC12's current focus is scaling up from single-qubit demonstrations to multi-qubit gates with long-range connectivity, a crucial step toward error correction and practical algorithms. Pierre notes the rapid evolution of error-correcting codes, remarking that some codes they are now working on did not exist two years ago. The interview closes with an eye on the race to demonstrate long-distance quantum gates, with Pierre hoping C12 will make industry headlines before larger competitors like IBM.Notable Quotes“The more you dig into this technology, the more you understand why this is just the way to build a quantum computer.”“We have the lowest charge noise compared to any kind of spin qubit—this is because of our suspended architecture.”“What we introduced is the concept of a quantum bus… really the only way to scale spin qubits.”Episode ThemesEntrepreneurship in deep tech without a traditional research backgroundTechnical deep dive on carbon nanotube spin qubits and quantum bus architectureMaterials science as the foundation of scalable quantum hardwareThe importance of coherence, noise reduction, and tunable architectures in quantum system designThe dynamic evolution of error correction and industry competitionListeners interested in cutting-edge hardware, quantum startup journeys, or the science behind scalable qubit platforms will find this episode essential. Pierre provides unique clarity on why C12's approach offers both conceptual and practical advantages for the future of quantum computing,

Dr. Eli Levenson-Falk joins Sebastian Hassinger, host of The New Quantum Era to discuss his group's recent advances in quantum measurement and control, focusing on a new protocol that enables measurements more sensitive than the Ramsey limit. Published in Nature Communications in April 2025, this work demonstrates a coherence stabilized technique that not only enhances sensitivity for quantum sensing but also promises improvements in calibration speed and robustness for superconducting quantum devices and other platforms. The conversation travels from Eli's origins in physics, through the conceptual challenges of decoherence, to experimental storytelling, and highlights the collaborative foundation underpinning this breakthrough.Guest BioEli Levenson-Falk is an Associate Professor at USC. He earned his PhD at UC Berkeley with Professor Irfan Siddiqui, and now leads an experimental physics research group working with superconducting devices for quantum information science. Key TopicsThe new protocol described in the paper: “Beating the Ramsey Limit on Sensing with Deterministic Qubit Control." Beyond the Ramsey measurement: How the team's technique stabilizes part of the quantum state for enhanced sensitivity—especially for energy level splittings—using continuous, slowly varying microwave control, applicable beyond just superconducting platforms. From playground swings to qubits: Eli explains how the physics of a playground swing inspired his passion for the field and lead to his understanding of the transmon qubit, and why analogies matter for intuition. Quantum decoherence and stabilization: How the method controls the “vector” of a quantum state on the Bloch sphere, dumping decoherence into directions that can be tracked or stabilized, markedly increasing measurement fidelity. Calibration and practical speedup: The protocol achieves greater measurement accuracy in less time or greater accuracy for a given time investment. This has implications for both calibration routines in quantum computers and for direct quantum measurements of fields (e.g., magnetic) or material properties. Applicability: While demonstrated on superconducting transmons, the protocol's generality means it may bring improved sensitivity to a variety of platforms—though the greatest benefits will be seen where relaxation processes dominate decoherence over dephasing. Collaboration and credit: The protocol was the product of a collaborative effort with theorist Daniel Lidar and his group, also at USC. In Eli's group, Malida Hecht conducted the experiment.Why It MattersBy breaking through the Ramsey sensitivity limit, this work provides a new tool for both quantum device calibration and quantum sensing. It allows for more accurate and faster frequency calibration within quantum processors, as well as finer detection of small environmental changes—a dual-use development crucial for both scalable quantum computing and sensitive quantum detection technologies.Episode Highlights Explanation of the “Ramsey limit” in quantum measurement and why surpassing it is significant. Visualization of quantum states using the Bloch sphere, and the importance of stabilizing the equatorial (phase) components for sensitivity. Experimental journey from “plumber” lab work to analytic insights, showing the back-and-forth of theory confronting experiment. Immediate and future impacts, from more efficient calibration in quantum computers to potentially new standards for quantum sensing. Discussion of related and ongoing work, such as improvements to deterministic benchmarking for gate calibration, and the broader applicability to various quantum platforms.If you enjoy The New Quantum Era, subscribe and tell your quantum-curious friends! Find all episodes at www.newquantum.era.com.

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by Christian Weedbrook, Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a groundbreaking Canadian company leading the charge in photonic quantum computing. With over $250 million raised, Xanadu is on track to revolutionize industries through its cutting-edge quantum technologies.Christian discusses his transition from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a quantum company, and the potential for quantum computing to reshape industries like AI, drug discovery, and materials science. He shares his insights on Canada's role in the future of quantum tech, how quantum's “ChatGPT moment” will likely change the game, and why error correction is the key to scalable quantum applications.Christian also dives into Xanadu's ambitious plans for a quantum data center in Toronto, aiming to leverage room-temperature photonic computing to create the world's first fault-tolerant quantum computing environment by 2029. From AI-driven innovation to material science breakthroughs, this episode is packed with insights on how the future of computing is being redefined.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.Christian's Journey from Quantum Physics to Entrepreneurial Vision (08:15)* The transition from academia to founding Xanadu.* Early quantum research and turning theory into a business.Quantum's "ChatGPT Moment" (13:10)* How quantum computing's breakthrough will mirror AI's rise.* The promise of quantum in industries like AI and drug discovery.The Challenges of Quantum Capital and Investment (16:20)* The hurdles of fundraising and dealing with investors unfamiliar with quantum technology.Xanadu's Recent Breakthrough in Photonic Error Correction (18:47)* How solving error correction will pave the way for real-world quantum applications.* Quantum advantage in practical settings.Canada's Advantage in Quantum and Xanadu's Global Impact (22:01)* Why Christian chose to build Xanadu in Toronto.* How Canada can lead the quantum revolution and avoid the pitfalls faced by the AI sector.The Future of Quantum Chemistry and Material Science (39:10)* The role of quantum computing in next-gen battery and solar cell development.* Why quantum chemistry is the next big frontier.About Christian WeedbrookChristian Weedbrook is the Founder and CEO of Xanadu, a leading quantum computing company based in Toronto, specializing in photonic quantum technologies. With a PhD in quantum computing, Christian has held postdoctoral positions at MIT and the University of Toronto, contributing to groundbreaking work in the field. He founded Xanadu in 2016, aiming to make quantum computing scalable and commercially viable. Under his leadership, the company has raised over $250 million and is on track to build the world's first fault-tolerant quantum data center by 2029. Christian is dedicated to positioning Canada as a global leader in quantum computing and helping to unlock its potential across industries like AI, drug discovery, and material science.Connect with Christian Weedbrook on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianweedbrook/Visit the Xanadu website: https://www.xanadu.ai/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

Assistant Professor Mohammad Mirhosseini (Caltech EE/APh) explains how his group built a mechanical quantum memory that stores microwave-photon quantum states far longer than typical superconducting qubits, and why that matters for hybrid quantum architectures. The discussion covers microwave photons, phonons, optomechanics, coherence versus lifetime (T2 vs. T1), current speed bottlenecks, and implications for quantum transduction and error mechanisms. The discussion centers on a paper from Mirhosseini's paper from December of 2024 titled, “A mechanical quantum memory for microwave photons,” detailing strong coupling between a transmon and a long‑lived nanomechanical oscillator for storage and retrieval of nonclassical states.GuestMohammad Mirhosseini is an Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering and Applied Physics at Caltech, where his group engineers hybrid superconducting–phononic–photonic systems at millikelvin temperatures for computing, communication, and sensing. He completed his PhD at the University of Rochester's Institute of Optics and was a postdoc in Oscar Painter's group at Caltech before starting his lab. His recent team effort demonstrates mechanical oscillators as compact, long‑lived quantum memories integrated with superconducting circuits.Key topicsWhat “microwave photons” are and how qubits emit/absorb single microwave photons in circuit QED analogously to atoms and optical photons.Why “memory” is missing in today's quantum processors and how a dedicated long‑lived storage element can complement fast but dissipative superconducting qubits.Optomechanics 101: mapping quantum states between electrical and mechanical degrees of freedom, with phonons as the quantized vibrational excitations.T1 vs. T2: demonstrated order‑of‑magnitude gains in lifetime (T1) and more modest current gains in coherence (T2), plus paths to mitigate dephasing.Present bottleneck: state conversion between qubit and oscillator is about 100× slower than native superconducting operations, with clear engineering avenues to speed up.Quantum transduction: leveraging the same mechanical intermediary to bridge microwave and optical domains for interconnects and networking.Two‑level system (TLS) defects: shared decoherence mechanisms across mechanical oscillators and superconducting circuits and why comparing both can illuminate materials limits.Why it mattersHybrid architectures that pair fast processors with long‑lived memories are a natural route to scaling, and mechanical oscillators offer lifetimes far exceeding conventional superconducting storage elements while remaining chip‑integrable.. Demonstrating nonclassical state storage and retrieval with strong qubit–mechanics coupling validates mechanical oscillators as practical quantum memories and sets the stage for on‑chip transduction. Overcoming current speed limits and dephasing would lower the overhead for synchronization, buffering, and possibly future fault‑tolerant protocols in superconducting platforms.Episode highlightsA clear explanation of microwave photons and how circuit QED lets qubits create and absorb them one by one.Mechanical memory concept: store quantum states as phonons in a gigahertz‑frequency nanomechanical oscillator and read them back later.Performance today: roughly 10–30× longer T1 than typical superconducting qubits with current T2 gains of a few×, alongside concrete strategies to extend T2.Speed trade‑off: present qubit–mechanics state transfer is ~100× slower than native superconducting gates, but device design and coupling improvements are underway.Roadmap: tighter coupling for in‑oscillator gates, microwave‑to‑optical conversion via the same mechanics, and probing TLS defects to inform both mechanical and superconducting coherence.

In this episode, host Sebastian Hassinger sits down with Xiaodi Wu, Associate Professor at the University of Maryland, to discuss Wu's journey through quantum information science, his drive for bridging computer science and physics, and the creation of the quantum programming language SimuQ.Guest IntroductionXiaodi Wu shares his academic path from Tsinghua University (where he studied mathematics and physics) to a PhD at the University of Michigan, followed by postdoctoral work at MIT and a position at the University of Oregon, before joining the University of Maryland.The conversation highlights Wu's formative experiences, early fascination with quantum complexity, and the impact of mentors like Andy Yao.Quantum Computing: Theory Meets PracticeWu discusses his desire to blend theoretical computer science with physics, leading to pioneering work in quantum complexity theory and device-independent quantum cryptography.He reflects on the challenges and benefits of interdisciplinary research, and the importance of historical context in guiding modern quantum technology development.Programming Languages and Human FactorsThe episode delves into Wu's transition from theory to practical tools, emphasizing the major role of human factors and software correctness in building reliable quantum software.Wu identifies the value of drawing inspiration from classical programming languages like FORTRAN and SIMULA—and points out that quantum software must prioritize usability and debugging, not just elegant algorithms.SimiQ: Hamiltonian-Based Quantum AbstractionWu introduces SimuQ, a new quantum programming language designed to treat Hamiltonian evolution as a first-class abstraction, akin to how floating-point arithmetic is fundamental in classical computing.SimiQ enables users to specify Hamiltonian models directly and compiles them to both gate-based and analog/pulse-level quantum devices (including IBM, AWS Braket, and D-Wave backends).The language aims to make quantum simulation and continuous-variable problems more accessible, and serves as a test bed for new quantum software abstractions.Analog vs. Digital in Quantum ComputingWu and Hassinger explore the analog/digital divide in quantum hardware, examining how SimuQ leverages the strengths of both by focusing on higher-level abstractions (Hamiltonians) that fit natural use cases like quantum simulation and dynamic systems.Practical Applications and VisionThe conversation highlights targeted domains for SimuQ, such as quantum chemistry, physics simulation, and machine learning algorithms that benefit from continuous-variable modeling.Wu discusses his vision for developer-friendly quantum tools, drawing parallels to the evolution of classical programming and the value of reusable abstractions for future advancements. Listen to The New Quantum Era podcast for more interviews with leaders in quantum computing, software development, and scientific research.

Host Sebastian Hassinger interviews Alexandre Blais, professor of physics at the Universite de Sherbrooke and scientific director of the Insitut Quantique. Alexandre discusses his academic journey, starting from his master's and PhD work in Sherbrooke, his move to Yale, and his collaborations with both theorists and experimentalists. He outlines the development of circuit QED (quantum electrodynamics) and its foundational role in the modern superconducting qubit landscape. Blais emphasizes the interplay between fundamental physics and technological progress in quantum computing, highlighting both academic contributions and partnerships with industry. He also describes the evolution and mission of Institut Quantique, stressing its role in bridging academia and the quantum industry by training talent and fostering startups in Sherbrooke, Quebec. Finally, Blais reflects on the dual promise of quantum computing—as a tool for scientific discovery and as a long-term commercial technology.Key Themes and Points1. Early Career and Path into Quantum ComputingAlexandre Blais began his quantum computing journey during his master's at Sherbrooke, inspired by a popular science article by Serge Haroche that laid out the argument for why quantum computers would never work.He pursued quantum studies at Sherbrooke despite a lack of local experts, showing early initiative and risk-taking.2. Transition to Yale and Circuit QEDBlais joined Yale for his postdoc, attracted by the strong theory–experiment collaboration.The Yale group pioneered "circuit QED," adapting ideas from cavity QED (single atoms in magnetic cavities) to superconducting circuits, enabling new ways to read out and control qubits.Circuit QED became the backbone of superconducting qubit technology, notably enabling the transmon qubit (now a dominant architecture).Collaborated with figures like prior guests of the podcast Steve Girvin and Rob Schoelkopf, and was a postdoc along with Jay Gambetta and Andreas Wallraff.3. Superconducting Qubits and Research FocusMost of Blais's work has centered on superconducting qubits, particularly on understanding and extending coherence times, reducing errors, and improving fabrication/design.Emphasizes the complex, nonlinear, and rich physics even of single-qubit systems (e.g., challenges of dispersive readout and unexpected phenomena like multiphoton resonances).Notes the continuing importance of deep, fundamental research despite growing industrial and engineering focus.4. Role of Academia vs. IndustryGrowth of corporate investment (Google, IBM, Amazon, Intel) has changed the landscape.Blais argues that universities should focus on pushing the scientific frontier and training talent, not on building commercial-scale quantum computers.Academic groups can pursue high-risk, high-reward research and deeper understanding of quantum technology's physical underpinnings.5. Institut Quantique and Quebec's Quantum EcosystemBlais leads Institut Quantique, which supports both basic and applied quantum research and has been highly successful in fostering a local quantum startup ecosystem (e.g., SBQuantum, NordQuantique, Qubic).Offers entrepreneurship courses and significant seed grants (even to students and postdocs) to encourage talent retention and company creation in Sherbrooke.Partnership between academia, startups, and public investment has attracted international players like Pasqal and IBM, establishing Sherbrooke as a quantum technology hub.6. Societal and Philosophical ReflectionsFundamental challenge: making increasingly large quantum systems remain quantum despite Bohr's assertion, via the Correspondence principle, that as a quantum system scales it will become classical.Quantum computers are not only future commercial tools—they are already invaluable scientific instruments, enabling new physics via experimental control of complex quantum systems.Blais is optimistic about quantum computing's potential for both discovery and eventual large-scale applications.Main TakeawaysBuilding quantum computers is both a technological and fundamental scientific challenge. Even with commercial interest, deep physical understanding is essential—academic research remains vital.Close collaboration between theorists and experimentalists breeds breakthrough advances. Circuit QED exemplifies this synergy.Quantum research institutes can seed thriving tech ecosystems, if they focus on both talent training and supporting spinouts, as shown by Institut Quantique in Sherbrooke.Quantum computing's greatest early impacts will likely be as scientific instruments, enabling novel experiments and discoveries, before large-scale commercial utility is achieved.Quantum hardware's development continually reveals new, subtle physics; e.g., the decades-long puzzle of dispersive readout reflects the complexity inherent in scaling up quantum technology.Notable Quotes “Quantum computers will, before being commercially useful, be fantastic tools for discoveries.” “What we're trying to do is go against that very fundamental principle—we're trying to build a bigger and bigger system that behaves ever more quantum.” “There is real power in mixing theory and experiment when tackling the challenges of quantum technology.”Listeners will enjoy a blend of scientific storytelling, personal insight, and a blueprint for building world-class quantum research hubs that advance both discovery and innovation.

In this episode, Sebastian Hassinger sits down with Bert de Jong, a leading computational chemist and Director of the Quantum Systems Accelerator at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. They explore Bert's journey from high-performance classical computing to the front lines of quantum research, his vision for the future of the U.S. National Quantum Initiative (NQI) center he leads, and the scientific and engineering challenges that will define the next era of quantum computing.Key Topics CoveredCareer Arc: Bert reflects on his 27-year career in the national lab system, moving from classical computational chemistry and HPC to becoming a leader in quantum computing research and center management.Genesis of Quantum Focus: He describes his pivot to quantum in 2014, prompted by the scaling limitations of classical simulations and the promise of quantum systems to tackle “bigger and bigger” problems.Role of National Labs and NQI: Discussion of the U.S. National Quantum Initiative and the unique positioning of national labs in driving foundational science and cross-sector collaboration through centers like QSA.QSA's Multimodal Approach: Insight into QSA's decision not to “choose a lane,” advancing superconducting qubits, trapped ions, and neutral atoms in parallel, and the unique innovations—like integrated photonics—enabled by this breadth.Neutral Atom Milestones: Highlights the rapid progress in neutral atom systems (including work with QuEra and Misha Lukin), and the looming advent of devices with dozens of logical qubits and error correction.Logical Qubits and Error Correction: Bert explains how all quantum modalities are advancing toward error-corrected logical qubits, and why 100-logical-qubit prototypes are a realistic five-year goal.Scientific Impact: A discussion of what constitutes “quantum (scientific) advantage,” and why Bert believes that chemistry, materials science, high-energy, and nuclear physics will be the first domains to benefit from quantum systems unavailable to classical computing.Balancing Science and Engineering: Exploration of the transition from fundamental scientific challenges to applied engineering problems as quantum hardware matures—touching on device manufacturing, integrated photonics, and the symbiosis between national labs and industry partners.Quantum Software Innovation: Bert's perspective on bridging researcher expertise with usable tools, including his work on open-source quantum compilers (e.g., BQSKit/biscuit) and the importance of diverse, in- terdisciplinary teams.Looking Ahead: Bert's vision for the next five years: transitioning quantum from promise to prototypes that deliver real scientific results, and solidifying a collaborative ecosystem across labs, universities, and industry.Notable Quotes“HPC, quantum, and AI are all just tools—what matters is how we use them to solve real science problems.”“We're at the point where error-corrected quantum prototypes with 100 logical qubits and high fidelity could deliver a true scientific advantage within five years.”“National labs bring together deep science, advanced engineering, and a culture of collaboration that's essential at this stage of quantum's development.”“Quantum advantage isn't a buzzword for us—it's about doing science that can't be done any other way.”Episode HighlightsBert's transition from classical to quantum and the pivotal role of DOE research centers.How QSA's cross-modality approach both accelerates hardware and fosters cross-institutional partnerships.A preview of upcoming neutral-atom milestones and why industry is watching closely.The importance of open standards and software that supports a rapidly diversifying hardware landscape.The public sector's role in driving “over the horizon” technology, derisking pathways beyond what private startups can take on alone.Ambitious, concrete goals for the next five years: prototype quantum systems delivering early scientific wins, not just more research papers.If you enjoy deep dives into the intersection of science, engineering, and the future ofquantum technology, subscribe and share The New Quantum Era.

Episode OverviewJoin Sebastian Hassinger in conversation with Deeya Viradia, a Gen Z voice and rising researcher in the quantum computing field. Deeya discusses her multifaceted journey—from early inspiration and undergraduate research to hackathons, quantum clubs, and her ambitions in commercialization. This episode is packed with resources, perspectives on education, and advice for newcomers in quantum technology.Key Topics & HighlightsDeeya's Quantum Origin StoryInspired by curiosity and early science exposure—especially an episode of "Martha Speaks" with Neil deGrasse Tyson—which led to an ongoing passion for exploring the unknown, from astronomy to quantum computing.Found her quantum footing through engineering physics at UC Berkeley and participation in the IBM Qiskit Summer School.Building a Quantum ResumeGained diverse hands-on experience with UC Berkeley's Quantum Devices Group, SLAC (Stanford Linear Accelerator Center), the DoD Quantum Entanglement and Space Technologies (QuEST) Lab, and multiple quantum hackathons (MIT iQuHack Hack, Yale's Y Quantum).Emphasizes the breadth of opportunity for undergraduates—advocates for involvement in hackathons and clubs, even without prior quantum experience.Theory vs. Experiment, and Academia vs. IndustryChallenges traditional boundaries, advocating for integration: understanding both the experimental physics and the theoretical/algorithmic sides of quantum.Describes work at SLAC: optimizing readout for superconducting qubits, working with dilution fridges, and collaborating across national labs and Stanford.Student Community & Entrepreneurial DriveFounded Q-BIT at Berkeley, a club focused on quantum computing applications and industry connections.Active in Berkeley's entrepreneurship community, driven to explore how quantum research moves from lab to commercial product.Commercialization and the Future of QuantumDiscusses the uncertain but promising path to quantum's economic value, highlighting interdisciplinary collaboration, communication, and cross-sector engagement.Strong advocate for students and non-technical communities alike to take risks, reach out, and jump into the field—because quantum needs diverse perspectives and no one knows exactly where it's headed!Resources MentionedIBM Quantum education resourcesIBM Quantum blog - where the summer camp will be announcedMIT iQuHackYale's Y QuantumUnitary FoundationQ-Ctrl Black OpalQ-BIT at BerkeleyQubit by QubitNational Q-12 Education Partnership IEEE Quantum WeekUC Berkeley Quantum Devices GroupSLAC National Accelerator LaboratoryEntrepreneurs @ Berkeley

Host: Sebastian HassingerGuest: Andrew Dzurak (CEO, Diraq)In this enlightening episode, Sebastian Hassinger interviews Professor Andrew Dzurak. Andrew is the CEO and co-founder of Diraq and concurrently a Scientia Professor in Quantum Engineering at UNSW Sydney, an ARC Laureate Fellow and a Member of the Executive Board of the Sydney Quantum Academy. Diraq is a quantum computing startup pioneering silicon spin qubits, based in Australia. The discussion delves into the technical foundations, manufacturing breakthroughs, scalability, and future roadmap of silicon-based quantum computers—all with an industrial and commercial focus.Key Topics and Insights1. What Sets Diraq ApartDiraq's quantum computers use silicon spin qubits, differing from the industry's more familiar modalities like superconducting, trapped ion, or neutral atom qubits.Their technology leverages quantum dots—tiny regions where electrons are trapped within modified silicon transistors. The quantum information is encoded in the spin direction of these trapped electrons—a method with roots stretching over two decades1.2. Manufacturing & ScalabilityDiraq modifies standard CMOS transistors, making qubits that are tens of nanometers in size, compared to the much larger superconducting devices. This means millions of qubits can fit on a single chip.The company recently demonstrated high-fidelity qubit manufacturing on standard 300mm wafers at commercial foundries (GlobalFoundries, IMEC), matching or surpassing previous experimental results—all fidelity metrics above 99%.3. Architectural InnovationsDiraq's chips integrate both quantum and conventional classical electronics side by side, using standard silicon design toolchains like Cadence. This enables leveraging existing chip design and manufacturing expertise, speeding progress towards scalable quantum chips.Movement of electrons (and thus qubits) across the chip uses CMOS bucket-brigade techniques, similar to charge-coupled devices. This means fast (

This episode of The New Quantum Era podcast, your host, Sebastian Hassinger, has a conversation with Dr. Charlotte Bøttcher, Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Dr. Bøttcher is an experimental physicist working with superconducting quantum devices, and shares with us her areas of focus and perspective on this critical area of materials research for quantum information science and technology. Episode HighlightsMeet Dr. Charlotte Bøttcher: Dr. Bøttcher shares her journey from Harvard (PhD) and Yale (postdoc with Michel Devoret) to launching her own experimental quantum materials group at Stanford. She discusses the excitement (and challenges) of building a new research lab from scratch.Hybrid Quantum Material Systems: The heart of the conversation centers on hybrid systems combining superconductors (aluminum) with semiconductors (indium arsenide). These materials pave the way for:Tunable and switchable superconductivity—the foundation for switchable quantum devices and potential advances in quantum information technology.Probing unconventional and topological superconductors, with implications for fundamental physics and exotic quantum states.Applications in Quantum Computing:Superconductivity plays a crucial role not only in qubits themselves but also in creating tunable couplers between qubits, allowing for controlled entanglement and reduced crosstalk.High-Tc superconductors (those with high critical temperatures) are discussed, including their complex, often disordered behavior—and their challenges and potential in qubit applications.Quantum Simulation and Sensing: Dr. Bøttcher describes her group's efforts to use devices for simulating complex many-body quantum systems, including both bosonic and fermionic Hamiltonians. Quantum devices are also used for quantum sensing—detecting magnetic fields, charge, or collective modes in exotic materials (such as uranium-based superconductors).Controlling Disorder: The episode explores how adjusting electron carrier density can expose or screen disorder in materials, enabling the study of its effects on quantum properties.Building a New Lab: Charlotte highlights the rewarding process of establishing her own experimental lab and mentoring the next generation of quantum scientists.Fundamental Science vs. Application: Dr. Bøttcher emphasizes the synergy between foundational quantum research and technological development—the pursuit of basic understanding feeds directly into better qubits and devices, which in turn open new avenues for exploring quantum phenomena.Future Directions: Looking ahead, her group aims to develop new superconducting qubits capable of operating at higher temperatures and frequencies, expand their quantum simulation platforms, and continue collaborations with Yale and others. The quest for phenomena like Majorana fermions and the exploration of topological phases remain part of her group's broader experimental frontier.Key Quotes “Combining superconductors and semiconductors gives us not just new functionality for quantum technology but also lets us explore fundamental questions about exotic states of matter.” – Charlotte Bøttcher “Building a lab from scratch is a lot of work, but every day is exciting. Working with students and starting new experiments is incredibly rewarding.” – Charlotte BøttcherTune in for a deep dive into hybrid materials, quantum simulation, and the inner workings of a cutting-edge quantum materials lab at Stanford!For more episodes: Visit newquantumera.comThanks to the American Physical Society (APS) for supporting this episode.

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, host Sebastian Hassinger sits down with Dr. Mark Saffman, a leading expert in atomic physics and quantum information science. As a professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and Chief Scientist at Infleqtion (formerly ColdQuanta), Mark is at the forefront of developing neutral atom quantum computing platforms using Rydberg atom arrays. The conversation explores the past, present, and future of neutral atom quantum computing, its scalability, technological challenges, and opportunities for hybrid quantum systems.Key TopicsEvolution of Neutral Atom Quantum ComputingThe history and development of Rydberg atom arrays, key technological breakthroughs, and the trajectory from early experiments to today's platforms capable of large-scale qubit arrays.Gate Fidelity and ScalabilityAdvances in gate fidelity, challenges in reducing laser noise, and the inherent scalability advantages of the neutral atom platform.Error Correction and Logical QubitsDiscussion of error detection/correction, logical qubit implementation, code distances, and the engineering required for repeated error correction in neutral atom systems.Synergy Between Academia and IndustryThe interplay between curiosity-driven university research and focused engineering efforts at Infleqtion, including the collaborative benefits of cross-pollination.Hybrid Quantum Systems and Future DirectionsPotential for integrating different modalities, including hybrid systems, quantum communication, and quantum sensors, as well as modularity in scaling quantum processors.Key InsightsNeutral atom arrays have achieved remarkable scalability, with demonstrations of arrays containing thousands of atomic qubits—well-positioned for large-scale quantum computing compared to other modalities.Advancements in laser technology and gate protocols have been crucial for improving gate fidelities, moving from early diode lasers to more stabilized, lower noise systems.Engineering challenges remain, such as atom loss, measurement speed, and the need for technologies enabling fast, high-degree-of-freedom optical reconfiguration.Logical qubit implementation is advancing, but practical, repeated rounds of error correction and syndrome measurement are required for fault-tolerant computing.Collaboration between university and industry labs accelerates both foundational understanding and the translation of discoveries into real-world devices.Notable Quotes“One of the exciting things about the Neutral Atom platform is that this is perhaps the most scalable platform that exists.”“Atoms make fantastic qubits — they're nature's qubits, all identical, excellent coherence… but they do have some sort of annoying features. They don't stick around forever. We have atom loss.”“Our wiring is not electronic printed circuits, it's laser beams propagating in space… That's great because it's reconfigurable in real time.”About the GuestMark Saffman is a Professor of Physics at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the Chief Scientist at Infleqtion, a company leading the commercial development of quantum technology platforms using neutral atoms. Mark is recognized for his pioneering work on Rydberg atom arrays, quantum logic gates, and advancing scalable quantum processors. His interdisciplinary experience bridges fundamental science and quantum tech commercialization.Keywords: quantum computing, Rydberg atoms, neutral atom arrays, Mark Saffman, Infleqtion, gate fidelity, scalability, quantum error correction, logical qubits, hybrid quantum systems, laser cooling, quantum communication, quantum sensors, quantum advantage, optical links, atomic physics, quantum technology, academic-industry collaboration.---For more episodes, visit The New Quantum Era and follow on Bluesky: @newquantumera.com. If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and share it with your quantum-curious friends!

In this episode, Sebastian Hassinger sits down with Dr. Liang Jiang from the University of Chicago to explore the exciting intersection of quantum error correction theory and practical implementation. Dr. Jiang discusses his group's work on hardware-efficient quantum error correction, the recent breakthroughs in demonstrating error correction thresholds, and the future of fault-tolerant quantum computing.Key Topics CoveredCurrent State of Quantum Error CorrectionRecent milestone achievements including Google's surface code experiment and AWS's bosonic code demonstrationsThe transition from purely theoretical work to practical implementations on real hardwareHardware platforms showing high fidelity: superconducting qubits, trapped ions, and cold atomsHardware-Efficient ApproachesBosonic Error Correction: Using single harmonic oscillators to correct loss errors, demonstrated at Yale and AWSSurface Codes: Google's achievement of going beyond breakeven point for quantum memoryQLDPC Codes: Collaboration with IBM and neutral atom array experiments, particularly Michel Lukin's group at HarvardFault-Tolerant Gate ImplementationChallenges of implementing universal computation with error-corrected logical qubitsMagic State Injection: Preparing resource quantum states and teleporting them into circuitsCode Switching: Switching between different error correcting codes to achieve universal gate setsThe Eastin-Knill no-go theorem and methods to overcome itProgramming Abstraction LayersEvolution toward higher-level programming abstractions similar to classical computingEfficient compilation of quantum circuits using discrete fault-tolerant gate setsMemory Operations: Teleporting gates into quantum memory rather than extracting qubitsQuantum Communication and NetworkingChannel Capacity and GKP CodesApplication of Gottesman-Kitaev-Preskill (GKP) codes for achieving channel capacity in lossy channelsRecent experimental demonstrations in trapped ions and superconducting qubits showing breakeven performanceMicrowave-to-Optical TransductionCritical challenge for connecting quantum devices across different frequency domainsRecent progress in demonstrating quantum channels between microwave and optical modesApplications for both quantum networking and modular quantum computing architecturesAdvanced ApplicationsQuantum Sensing with Error CorrectionResearch by Dr. Jiang's former student Sisi Zhou addressing John Preskill's 20-year-old questionNecessary and sufficient conditions for error correction to help quantum sensingApplications to gravitational wave detection and dark matter searchesAlgorithmic Quantum MetrologyCollaboration with MIT researchers on combining global search algorithms with quantum sensorsPotential for quantum advantage in processing quantum signals from quantum sensorsFuture DirectionsDistributed Quantum ComputingModular architecture with specialized components: memory, processors, and interfacesScaling challenges requiring interconnects between different quantum devicesSystem-level thinking about quantum computer architectureApplication-Specific Error CorrectionTailoring error correction schemes for specific algorithms and applicationsCo-design approach considering hardware capabilities and application requirementsKey InsightsTheory-Experiment Collaboration: The importance of close collaboration between theorists and experimentalists to understand real-world error modelsHardware Efficiency: Moving beyond generic error correction to platform-specific and application-specific approachesTemporal Considerations: The need for not just hardware efficiency but also time efficiency in quantum operationsAbstraction Evolution: The inevitable move toward higher-level programming abstractions as fault-tolerant quantum computing maturesNotable Quotes"We want to do hardware efficient quantum error correction... given qubits are still very precious resource.""Quantum computers are really good at processing quantum signals. Where does the quantum signal come from? Quantum sensor is definitely a very promising source."About the Guest:Dr. Liang Jiang leads a research group at the University of Chicago focused on the practical implementation of quantum error correction and fault-tolerant quantum computing. His work spans multiple quantum platforms and emphasizes the co-design of hardware and error correction schemes.About The New Quantum Era:The New Quantum Era is hosted by Sebastian Hassinger and features in-depth conversations with leading researchers and practitioners in quantum computing, exploring the latest developments and future prospects in the field.

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, your host, Sebastian Hassinger sits down with Dr. Yvonne Gao, a leading experimental physicist specializing in superconducting devices and quantum cavities. Recorded at the American Physical Society's Global Summit, the conversation explores the intersection of curiosity-driven research and technological advancement in quantum physics.Key Topics Discussed1. Research Focus: Quantum Cavities and SuperpositionDr. Gao shares her team's work on using cavities (harmonic oscillators) coupled with a single qubit to probe fundamental quantum effects.The experiments focus on quantum superposition and entanglement using minimal hardware—just one qubit and one cavity—eschewing the race for more qubits in favor of deeper scientific insights.Discussion of "cat states" as iconic demonstrations of quantum superposition, and how their properties can be engineered for robustness and sensitivity without specialized hardware.2. Experimental InnovationThe team investigates loss mechanisms in cavity-based quantum states and explores ways to make these states more resilient through state engineering rather than hardware changes.Dr. Gao describes using standard, "vanilla" qubits and cavities, making their techniques accessible to other labs.3. Fundamental Questions and Quantum PlaygroundDr. Gao emphasizes the value of the circuit QED platform as a "playground" for exploring quantum phenomena, particularly entanglement and its quantification in real hardware.The challenge of visualizing and intuitively understanding quantum phenomena is highlighted, with experiments designed to make abstract concepts more tangible.4. Device Fabrication and AdvancementsDr. Gao's lab at NUS has developed in-house fabrication capabilities, gradually building up expertise and infrastructure.The field is witnessing rapid improvements in device performance, driven by advances in materials science and process integration.5. Multipartite Entanglement and Future DirectionsPlans for multi-cavity devices: Moving from single and two-cavity systems to three, enabling the study of tripartite entanglement and richer quantum dynamics.The potential for these systems to serve as both research tools and pedagogical aids, demonstrating quantum strangeness in a hands-on way.6. Synergy Between Science and TechnologyThe conversation explores the unique moment in quantum research where fundamental science and technological objectives are closely aligned.Knowledge flows both ways: curiosity-driven experiments inform processor design, while industrial advances in fabrication and control benefit academic labs.7. The "Perfect Quantum Lab" Thought ExperimentDr. Gao shares her wish list for a hypothetical, fault-tolerant quantum computer: to directly observe textbook quantum phenomena and simulate complex quantum behaviors in a tangible way.Memorable Quotes"We're very proud that we only use one qubit and one cavity... We tried to build in creative features and techniques from control and measurement perspectives to tease out interesting dynamics and features on the harmonic oscillator.""A lot of what we do is trying to find the most intuitive picture to capture what these abstract physical phenomena actually look like in the lab.""There's this nice synergy between the drive to make practical quantum processors and the more academic, curiosity-driven research focusing on the fundamental."Find this and other episodes at New Quantum Era's website or wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe and share with your quantum-curious friends!

In this episode, your host Sebastian Hassinger sits down with Andrew Houck to explore the latest advancements and collaborative strategies in quantum computing. Houck shares insights from his leadership roles at both Princeton and the Center for Co-Design of Quantum Advantage (C2QA), focusing on how interdisciplinary efforts are pushing the boundaries of coherence times, materials science, and scalable quantum architectures. The conversation covers the importance of co-design across the quantum stack, the challenges and surprises in improving qubit performance, and the vision for the next era of quantum research.KEY TOPICS DISCUSSEDMission of C2QA:The central goal is to build the components necessary to move beyond the NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) era into fault-tolerant quantum computing. This requires integrating expertise in materials, devices, software, error correction, and architecture to ensure compatibility and progress at every level.Materials Breakthroughs:Houck discusses the surprising impact of using tantalum in superconducting qubits, which has significantly reduced surface losses compared to other metals. He explains the ongoing quest to identify and mitigate sources of decoherence, such as two-level systems (TLSs) and interface defects.Co-Design Philosophy:The episode delves into two types of co-design:Vertical co-design: Aligning advances in materials, devices, error correction, and architecture to optimize the full quantum computing stack.Cross-platform co-design: Bridging ideas and techniques across different qubit modalities and even across disciplines, such as applying methods from quantum sensing to quantum computing.Error Correction Innovations:Houck highlights breakthroughs like using GKP states for error correction, which have achieved performance beyond the break-even point, thanks to improvements in materials and device design.Bosonic Modes and Custom Architectures:The conversation touches on leveraging native bosonic modes in hardware to simulate field theories more efficiently, potentially saving vast computational resources. Houck discusses the trade-offs between general-purpose and custom quantum circuits in the current era of limited qubit counts.Modular Quantum Computing:As quantum systems scale, the focus is shifting to modular architectures. Houck outlines the challenges of connecting modules—such as chip-to-chip coupling and optimizing connectivity for error correction and algorithms.Institutional Collaboration:Houck contrasts the long-term, foundational investment at Princeton with the national, multi-institutional mission of C2QA. He emphasizes the unique strengths universities, industry, and national labs each bring to quantum research, and the importance of fostering collaboration across these sectors.Looking Ahead:The next phase for C2QA will incorporate advances in neutral atom quantum computing and diamond-based quantum sensing, while ramping down some networking efforts. Houck also reflects on the broader scientific and practical motivations driving quantum information science, and the fundamental questions that large-scale quantum systems may help answer.NOTABLE QUOTES“There's a quasi-infinite number of ways that you can mess up coherence… If you're really only using one number, you'll never know.”“Some of the best ideas we have are taking approaches from one field and bringing them to another. That's what we call cross-platform co-design.”“A million-qubit quantum computer is basically a cat… as you build these systems up, you can start to really ask: do we actually understand quantum mechanics as it turns into these macroscopically large objects?”RESOURCES & MENTIONSCenter for Co-Design of Quantum Advantage (C2QA)Princeton Quantum InitiativeFor more episodes and updates, subscribe to The New Quantum Era.

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, Sebastian is joined by Dr. Emily Edwards, a co-founder of the Q12 initiative, an NSF-funded effort aimed at enhancing quantum science education from middle school through early undergraduate levels. Emily brings her expertise in organizing and motivating educators, as well as her passion for science communication. In this episode, we delve into the unique challenges of teaching quantum science and explore effective strategies to make this abstract field more accessible to learners of all ages.Key PointsChallenges in Quantum Communication and Education: Emily discusses the public perception of quantum science, often influenced by pop culture, and the importance of demystifying the subject to make it more approachable.Strategies for Formal and Informal Learning: The conversation highlights different techniques for teaching quantum science in formal settings, like schools, and informal settings, such as science museums or YouTube. Emily emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge and incremental learning.Role of Technology in Quantum Education: Emily talks about using scanning electron microscopes and other technologies to make the invisible world of quantum science visible, thus igniting public interest and imagination similar to stargazing.Importance of Science Communication Workshops: Emily shares her experience in leading science communication workshops, aiming to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of science content created by the public.Public and Private Sector Collaboration: The discussion touches on the need for a blend of federal and private funding to sustain and scale quantum education initiatives. Emily stresses the importance of industry involvement to emphasize the urgency and importance of scientific literacy for the future workforce.

Welcome to our new Podcast episode, with an all-new host! In this episode, Konstantina Armadorou interviews Chemistry Europe laureate and accomplished computational chemist Professor Stefan Grimme. A captivating conversation about current trends in the field of chemistry and unlikely collaborations awaits you. Enjoy!Host: Konstantina ArmadorouIntro and Outro: Carl SchneiderWriting: Carl Schneider and Konstantina ArmadorouEditing: Miguel Steiner

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, your host Sebastian Hassinger talks with Dr. Daniel Lidar. Dr. Lidar is a pioneering researcher in quantum computing with over 25 years of experience, currently a professor at the University of Southern California. His work spans quantum algorithms, error correction, and quantum advantage, with significant contributions to understanding quantum annealing and noise suppression techniques. Lidar has been instrumental in exploring practical quantum computing applications since the mid-1990s.Key Topics Discussed:Dr. Lidar discussed how his experiments have demonstrated computational advantages on D-Wave and IBM quantum devices using innovative error suppression methods like dynamical decouplingWe discuss Dr. Lidar's involvement in the exploration of the mechanics of quantum annealing, particularly with D-Wave devices, and its potential for solving optimization problemsDaniel provides a detailed view of emerging approaches to error suppression, including logical dynamical decoupling (LDD) and its experimental validationFinally we touch on Quantum Elements, his new company focused on developing more accurate open-system quantum simulation software to improve quantum hardware performance

The Perpetual Motion podcast visits the 2025 Rice Business Plan Competition and talks with several of the 42 teams from around the world competing for more than $1.5 million in cash and prizes. Timestamps:2:02 - GreenLIB: One-step pre-treatment process that extracts and refines critical battery elements4:25 - Rora: Committed to bettering women's health at every life stage by creating innovative products for menopause symptom management8:10 - Safe Marine Transfer: Focused on safe subsea chemical injection to economically extend deepwater subsea tiebacks13:01 - Xatoms: using AI and Quantum-Chemistry to discover new materials to clean polluted water16:57 - Pinwheel: Designed for kids and managed by parents, this cool looking, modern phone helps kids grow into independent adults who use technology well23:20 - Watermarked.ai: Disrupts AI model training with undetectable audio watermarks and detects AI-generated deepfakes25:46 - Mito Robotics: AI-powered robotic system designed to automate research-scale cell culture

In this episode, Sebastian Hassinger welcomes back James Wootton, now Chief Science Officer at Moth Quantum, for a fascinating conversation about quantum computing's role in creative applications. This is a return visit from James, having appeared on episode 2, this time to talk about his exciting new role. Previously at IBM Quantum, James has been a pioneer in exploring unconventional applications of quantum computing, particularly in gaming, art, and creative industries.Key TopicsOrigins of James's Quantum JourneyStarted in Arosa, Switzerland (coincidentally where Schrödinger developed his wave equation)Initially skeptical about commercial applications of his quantum error correction researchCreated "Decodoku" (a play on "decoder" and "Sudoku"), a puzzle game to gamify quantum error correction in 2016The same year IBM put a 5 qubit machine on the cloud, creating a paradigm shift in accessibilityQuantum Gaming InnovationsDeveloped what may be the first quantum computing gameCreated "Hello Quantum," a mobile educational gameDeveloped "Quantum Blur," a tool that encodes images in quantum states, allowing users to see how quantum gates affect imagesUsed quantum computing for procedural generation in games, including terrain generation for Minecraft-like environmentsQuantum Art and CreativityCollaborated with a classical painter who has used Quantum Blur as his main artistic tool for five yearsExplored using quantum computing for music generationInvestigated language generation using the DiscoCat frameworkMoth QuantumJames joined Moth Quantum as Chief Science OfficerThe company focuses on bringing quantum computing to creative industriesTheir approach recognizes that in creative fields, "usefulness" can mean bringing something unique rather than just superior performanceAims to build expertise with current quantum technologies to be ready when fault tolerance enables quantum advantageAt the beginning of May, 2025, Moth collaborated with musical artist ILA on a project called "Infinite Remix," using quantum computing in the creation of an exciting new musical creation tool. 

Introduction: In this milestone 50th episode of The New Quantum Era, your host Sebastian Hassinger welcomes Dr. Anna Grassellino, a leading figure in quantum information science and the director of the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems Center at Fermilab, or SQMS. Dr. Grassellino discusses the center's mission to advance quantum computing and quantum sensing through innovations in superconducting materials and devices. The conversation explores the intersection of quantum hardware development, high energy physics applications, and the collaborative efforts driving progress in the field. We recorded our conversation at the APS 2025 Global Summit with assistance from the American Physical Society and from Quantum Machines, Inc. Main Topics Discussed:The vision and mission of the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems (SQMS) Center, including its role in the Department of Energy's National Quantum Initiative and its focus on developing quantum systems with superior performance for scientific and technological applications.Advances in superconducting quantum hardware, particularly the use of high-quality superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities and their integration with two-dimensional superconducting circuits to enhance qubit coherence and scalability.Key technical challenges in scaling up quantum systems, such as mitigating decoherence, improving materials, and developing large-scale cryogenic platforms for quantum experiments.The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between quantum engineers, materials scientists, and high energy physicists to achieve breakthroughs in quantum technology.Future directions for the SQMS Center, including the pursuit of quantum advantage in high energy physics algorithms, quantum sensing, and the development of robust error correction strategies.Notable Papers from Fermi's SQMS Center:Quantum computing hardware for HEP algorithms and sensing (arXiv:2204.08605) – Overview of SQMS's approach to quantum hardware for high energy physics applications, including architectures and error correction.A large millikelvin platform at Fermilab for quantum computing applications (arXiv:2108.10816) – Description of the design and goals of a large-scale cryogenic platform for hosting advanced quantum devices at millikelvin temperatures.Searches for New Particles, Dark Matter, and Gravitational Waves Additional recent preprints and publications from SQMS can be found on the SQMS Center's publications page, including work on nonlinear quantum mechanics bounds, materials for quantum devices, and quantum error correction strategies.

IntroductionIn this episode of The New Quantum Era podcast, host Sebastian Hassinger delves into an insightful conversation with Yonatan Cohen, CTO and co-founder of Quantum Machines. As a pioneer in quantum control systems, Quantum Machines is at the forefront of tackling the critical challenges of scaling quantum computing, and they also provided support for my interviews conducted at the American Physical Society's Global Summit 2025. APS itself also graciously provided support for these episodes. Yonatan shares exciting updates from their latest demos at the APS conference, discusses their unique approach to quantum control, and explores how integrating classical and quantum computing is paving the way for more efficient and scalable solutions.Key PointsScaling Quantum Control Systems: Yonatan discusses the challenges of scaling up quantum control systems, emphasizing the need to make systems more compact, reduce power consumption, and lower costs per qubit while maintaining high analog specifications.Integration of Classical Compute with Quantum Systems: The conversation highlights Quantum Machines' collaborative work with NVIDIA on DGX Quantum, a platform that integrates classical and quantum computing to enhance computational power and low-latency data transfer.AI for Quantum Calibration and Error Correction: Yonatan explains the role of AI and machine learning in speeding up the calibration process of quantum computers and improving qubit control, potentially transforming how frequently and effectively quantum systems can be calibrated.Versatility Across Different Quantum Modalities: Quantum Machines' control systems are adaptable to various quantum computing modalities such as superconducting qubits, NV centers, and atomic qubits, providing a flexible toolkit for researchers.The Role of the Israeli Quantum Computing Center: Yonatan describes Quantum Machines' involvement in building and operating the Israeli Quantum Computing Center, providing researchers with hands-on access to cutting-edge quantum control technologies.

Welcome to episode 48 of The New Quantum Era podcast! Another episode recorded at the APS Global Summit in March, today's special guest is true quantum pioneer, John Martinis, co-founder and CTO of QoLab, a superconducting qubit company seeking to build a million qubit device. In this enlightening conversation, we explore the strategic shifts, collaborative efforts, and technological innovations that are pushing the boundaries of quantum computing closer to building scalable, million-qubit systems. This episode was made with support form The American Physical Society and Quantum Machines, Inc. (BTW I know I said episode 49 in the intro to this episode, I noticed it too late to fix without a further delay in posting the interview!)Key HighlightsEmerging from Stealth Mode & Million-Qubit System Paper:Discussion on QoLab's transition from stealth mode and their comprehensive paper on building scalable million-qubit systems.Focus on a systematic approach covering the entire stack.Collaboration with Semiconductor Companies:Unique business model emphasizing collaboration with semiconductor companies to leverage external expertise.Comparison with bigger players like Google, who can fund the entire stack internally.Innovative Technological Approaches:Integration of wafer-scale technology and advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes.Emphasis on adjustable qubits and adjustable couplers for optimizing control and scalability.Scaling Challenges and Solutions:Strategies for achieving scale, including using large dilution refrigerators and exploring optical communication for modular design.Plans to address error correction and wiring challenges using brute force scaling and advanced materials.Future Vision and Speeding Up Development:QoLab's goal to significantly accelerate the timeline toward achieving a million-qubit system.Insight into collaborations with HP Enterprises, NVIDIA, Quantum Machines, and others to combine expertise in hardware and software.Research Papers Mentioned in this Episode:Position paper on building scalable million-qubit systems 

In this episode of The New Quantum Era podcast, your host Sebastian Hassinger interviews two of the field's most well-known figures, John Preskill and Rob Schoelkopf, about the transition of quantum computing into a new phase that John is calling "megaquop," which stands for "a million quantum operations." Our conversation delves into what this new phase entails, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and the innovative approaches being explored to make quantum computing perform better and become more useful. This episode was made with the kind support of the American Physical Society and Quantum Circuits, Inc. Here's what you can expect from this insightful discussion:Introduction of the Megaquop Era: John explains the transition from the NISQ era to the megaquop era, emphasizing the need for quantum error correction and the goal of achieving computations with around a million operations.Quantum Error Correction: Both John and Rob discuss the importance of quantum error correction, the challenges involved, and the innovative approaches being taken, such as dual rail and cat qubits.Superconducting Qubits and Dual Rail Approach: Rob shares insights into Quantum Circuits' work on dual rail superconducting qubits, which aim to make error correction more efficient by detecting erasure errors.Scientific and Practical Implications: The conversation touches on the scientific value of current quantum devices and the potential applications and discoveries that could emerge from the megaquop era.Future Directions and Challenges: The discussion also covers the future of quantum computing, including the need for better connectivity and the challenges of scaling up quantum devices.Mentioned in this Episode:Beyond NISQ: The Megaquop Machine: John Preskill's paper adapting his keynote from Q2B Silicon Valley 2024Quantum Circuits, Inc.: Rob's company, which is working on dual rail superconducting qubits.

In this episode of The New Quantum Era podcast, host Sebastian Hassinger speaks with Steve Girvin, professor of physics at Yale University, about quantum memory - a critical but often overlooked component of quantum computing architecture. This episode was created with support from the American Physical Society and Quantum Circuits, Inc.Episode HighlightsIntroduction to Quantum Memory: Steve explains that quantum memory is essential for quantum computers, similar to how RAM functions in classical computers. It serves as intermediate storage while the CPU works on other data.Coherence Challenges: Quantum bits (qubits) struggle to faithfully hold information for extended periods. Quantum memory faces both bit flips (like classical computers) and phase flips (unique to quantum systems).The Fundamental Theorem: Steve notes there's “no such thing as too much coherence” in quantum computing - longer coherence times are always beneficial.Quantum Random Access Memory (QRAM): Unlike classical RAM, QRAM can handle quantum superpositions, allowing it to process multiple addresses simultaneously and create entangled states of addresses and their associated data.QRAM Applications: Quantum memory enables state preparation, construction of oracles, and processing of big data in quantum algorithms for machine learning and linear algebra.Tree Architecture: QRAM is structured like an upside-down binary tree with routers at each node. The “bucket brigade” approach guides quantum bits through the tree to retrieve data.Error Resilience: Surprisingly, the error situation in QRAM is less catastrophic than initially feared. With a million leaf nodes and 0.1% error rate per component, only about 1,000 errors would occur, but the shallow circuit depth (only requiring n hops for n address bits) makes the system more resilient.Dual-Rail Approach: Recent work by Danny Weiss demonstrates using dual resonator (dual-rail) qubits where a microwave photon exists in superposition between two boxes, achieving 99.9% fidelity for each hop in the tree.Historical Context: Steve draws parallels to early classical computing memory systems developed by von Neumann at Princeton's IAS, including mercury delay line memory and early fault tolerance concepts.Future Outlook: While building quantum memory presents significant challenges, Steve remains optimistic about progress, noting that improving base qubit quality first and then scaling is their preferred approach.Key ConceptsQuantum Memory: Storage for quantum information that maintains coherenceQRAM (Quantum Random Access Memory): Architecture that allows quantum superpositions of addresses to access corresponding dataCoherence Time: How long a qubit can maintain its quantum stateBucket Brigade: Method for routing quantum information through a tree structureDual-Rail Qubits: Encoding quantum information in the presence of a photon in one of two resonatorsReferencesWeiss, D.K., Puri, S., Girvin, S.M. (2024). “Quantum random access memory architectures using superconducting cavities.” arXiv:2310.08288Xu, S., Hann, C.T., Foxman, B., Girvin, S.M., Ding, Y. (2023). “Systems Architecture for Quantum Random Access Memory.” arXiv:2306.03242Brock, B., et al. (2024). “Quantum Error Correction of Qudits Beyond Break-even.” arXiv:2409.15065

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, host Sebastian Hassinger interviews Professor Will Oliver from MIT about the advancements in fluxonium qubits. The discussion delves into the unique features of fluxonium qubits compared to traditional transmon qubits, highlighting their potential for high fidelity operations and scalability. Oliver shares insights from recent experiments at MIT, where his team achieved nearly five nines fidelity in single-qubit gates, and discusses how these qubits could be scaled up for larger quantum computing architectures through innovative control systems.Major Points Covered:Fluxonium vs. Transmon Qubits: Fluxonium qubits have a double-well potential, unlike the harmonic oscillator-like potential of transmon qubits. This design allows for high anharmonicity, which is beneficial for reducing leakage to higher energy levels during operations.High Fidelity Operations: The MIT team achieved high fidelity in both single and two-qubit gates using fluxonium qubits. For single qubits, they reached nearly five nines fidelity, and for two-qubit gates, they achieved fidelities around 99.92%.Scalability and Cost Reduction: Fluxonium qubits operate at lower frequencies, which could enable the integration of control electronics at cryogenic temperatures, reducing costs and increasing scalability. This approach is being developed by Atlantic Quantum, a startup spun out of Oliver's research groupFuture Directions: The goal is to implement surface code error correction with fluxonium qubits, which could lead to efficient production of logical qubits due to their high fidelity operationsThis episode brought to you with support from APS and from Quantum Machines, a big thank you to both organizations!

Professor Zoe Holmes from EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland, discusses her work on quantum imaginary time evolution and variational techniques for near-term quantum computers. With a background from Imperial College London and Oxford, Holmes explores the limits of what can be achieved with NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) devices.Key topics covered:Quantum Imaginary Time Evolution (QITE) as a cooling-inspired algorithm for finding ground statesComparison of QITE to Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE) approachesChallenges in variational methods, including barren plateaus and expressivity concernsTrade-offs between circuit depth, fidelity, and practical implementation on current hardwarePotential for scientific value from NISQ-era devices in physics and chemistry applicationsThe interplay between classical and quantum methods in advancing our understanding of quantum systems

Welcome to another episode of The New Quantum Era, where we delve into the cutting-edge developments in quantum computing. with your host, Sebastian Hassinger. Today, we have a unique episode featuring representatives from two companies collaborating on groundbreaking quantum algorithms and hardware. Joining us are Sean Weinberg, Director of Quantum Applications at Quantum Circuits Incorporated, and Guillermo Garcia Perez, Chief Science Officer and co-founder at Algorithmiq. Together, they discuss their partnership and the innovative work they are doing to advance quantum computing applications, particularly in the field of chemistry and pharmaceuticals.Key Highlights:Introduction of New Podcast Format: Sebastian explains the new format of the podcast and introduces the guests, Sean Weinberg from Quantum Circuits Inc. and Guillermo Garcia Perez from Algorithmic.Collaboration Overview: Guillermo discusses the partnership between Quantum Circuits Inc. and Algorithmiq, focusing on how Quantum Circuits Inc.'s dual-rail qubits with built-in error detection enhance Algorithmiq's quantum algorithms.Innovative Algorithms: Guillermo elaborates on their novel approach to ground state simulations using tensor network methods and informationally complete measurements, which improve the accuracy and efficiency of quantum computations.Hardware Insights: Sean provides insights into Quantum Circuits Inc.'s Seeker device, an eight-qubit system that flags 90% of errors, and discusses the future scalability and potential for error correction.Future Directions: Both guests talk about the potential for larger-scale devices and the importance of collaboration between hardware and software companies to advance the field of quantum computing.Mentioned in this Episode:Quantum Circuits Inc.AlgorithmiqQCI's forthcoming quantum computing device, Aqumen SeekerTensor Network Error Mitigation: A method used by Algorithmic to improve the accuracy of quantum computations.Tune in to hear about the exciting advancements in quantum computing and how these two companies are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in this new quantum era, and if you like what you hear, check out www.newquantumera.com, where you'll find our full archive of episodes and a preview of the book I'm writing for O'Reilly Media, The New Quantum Era.

Welcome back to The New Quantum Era, a podcast by Sebastian Hassinger and Kevin Rowney. After a brief hiatus, we're excited to bring you a fascinating conversation with a true pioneer in the field of quantum computing, Alán Aspuru-Guzik. Alán is a professor at the University of Toronto and a leading figure in quantum computing, known for his foundational work on the Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE). In this episode, we delve into the evolution of VQE and explore Alán's latest groundbreaking work on the Generative Quantum Eigensolver (GQE). Expect to hear about the intersection of quantum computing and machine learning, and how these advancements could shape the future of the field.Key Highlights:Origins of VQE: Alan discusses the development of the Variational Quantum Eigensolver, a technique that combines classical and quantum computing to approximate the ground state of chemical systems. This method was a significant step forward in efforts to make practical use of noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices.Challenges and Innovations: The conversation touches on the challenges of variational algorithms, such as the barren plateau problem, and how Alán's group has been working on innovative solutions to overcome these hurdles.Introduction to GQE: Alán introduces the Generative Quantum Eigensolver, a new approach that leverages generative models like transformers to optimize quantum circuits without relying on quantum gradients. This method aims to make quantum computing more efficient and practical.Future of Quantum Computing: The discussion explores the potential future workflows in quantum computing, where hybrid architectures combining classical and quantum computing will be essential. Alán shares his vision of how GQE could be foundational in this new era.Broader Applications: Beyond chemistry, the GQE technique has potential applications in quantum machine learning and other variational algorithms, making it a versatile tool in the quantum computing toolkit.Mentioned in this episode:A variational eigenvalue solver on a quantum processor: Foundational paper on VQE technique.The generative quantum Eigensolver (GQE) and its application for ground state search: Alan's latest paper on GQE and its applications.Tequila Framework: An extensible software framework for VQE experiments.The Meta-Variational Quantum Eigensolver (Meta-VQE): Learning energy profiles of parameterized Hamiltonians for quantum simulation: A paper on learning across potential energy surfaces.Quantum autoencoders for efficient compression of quantum data: Early work on quantum autoencoders for molecular design.Beyond NISQ: The Megaquop Machine: John Preskill's slides from Q2B SV 2024. I think John is great, but "megaquop" is very "fetch."Myths around quantum computation before full fault tolerance: what no-go theorems rule out and what they don't: A paper discussing myths and truths about quantum computing.Stay tuned for more exciting episodes and deep dives into the world of quantum computing. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, review, and share it on your preferred social media platforms. Thank you for listening!

Welcome to another episode of The New Quantum Era, hosted by Sebastian Hassinger and Kevin Rowney. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Robert Schoelkopf, Sterling Professor of Applied Physics at Yale, Director of the Yale Quantum Institute, and CTO and co-founder at Quantum Circuits, Inc. Dr. Schoelkopf is a pioneering figure in the field of quantum computing, particularly known for his contributions to the development of the transmon qubit architecture. In this episode, we delve into the history and future of quantum computing, focusing on the latest advancements in error correction and the innovative dual rail qubit architecture.Key Highlights:Historical Context and Contributions: Dr. Schoelkopf discusses the early days of quantum computing at Yale, including the development of the transmon qubit architecture, which has been foundational for superconducting qubits.Introduction to Dual Rail Qubits: Explanation of the dual rail qubit architecture, which promises significant improvements in error detection and correction, potentially reducing the overhead required for fault-tolerant quantum computing.Error Correction Strategies: Insights into how the dual rail qubit architecture simplifies the detection and correction of errors, making quantum error correction more efficient and scalable.Modular Approach to Quantum Computing: Discussion on the modular design of quantum systems, which allows for easier scaling and maintenance, and the potential for interconnecting quantum modules via microwave photons.Future Prospects and Real-World Applications: Dr. Schoelkopf shares his vision for the future of quantum computing, including the commercial deployment of Quantum Circuits, Inc's new quantum devices and the ongoing collaboration between theoretical and experimental approaches to advance the field.Mentioned in this Episode:Yale Quantum InstituteQuantum Circuits Inc. announces Aqumen SeekerJoin us as we explore these groundbreaking advancements and their implications for the future of quantum computing.

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, Sebastian talks with Martin Schultz, Professor at TU Munich and board member of the Leibniz Supercomputing Center (LRZ) about the critical need to integrate quantum computers with classical supercomputing resources to build practical quantum solutions. They discuss the Munich Quantum Valley initiative, focusing on the challenges and advancements in merging quantum and classical computing.Main Topics Discussed:The Genesis of Munich Quantum Valley: The Munich Quantum Valley is a collaborative project funded by the Bavarian government to advance quantum research and development. The project quickly realized the need for software infrastructure to bridge the gap between quantum hardware and real-world applications.Building a Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing Infrastructure: LRZ is developing a software stack and web portal to streamline the interaction between their HPC system and various quantum computers, including superconducting and ion trap systems. This approach enables researchers to leverage the strengths of both classical and quantum computing resources seamlessly.Hierarchical Scheduling for Efficient Resource Allocation: LRZ is designing a multi-tiered scheduling system to optimize resource allocation in the hybrid environment. This system considers factors like job requirements, resource availability, and the specific characteristics of different quantum computing technologies to ensure efficient execution of quantum workloads.Open-Source Collaboration and Standardization: LRZ aims to make its software stack open-source, recognizing the importance of collaboration and standardization in the quantum computing community. They are actively working with vendors to define standard interfaces for integrating quantum computers with HPC systems.Addressing the Unknown in Quantum Computing: The field of quantum computing is evolving rapidly, and LRZ acknowledges the need for adaptable solutions. Their architectural design prioritizes flexibility, allowing for future pivots and the incorporation of new quantum computing models and intermediate representations as they emerge.Munich Quantum ValleyIEEE Quantum

Welcome to The New Quantum Era, a podcast hosted by Sebastian Hassinger and Kevin Rowney. In this episode, we have an insightful conversation with Dr. Toby Cubitt, a pioneer in quantum computing, a professor at UCL, and a co-founder of Phasecraft. Dr. Cubitt shares his deep understanding of the current state of quantum computing, the challenges it faces, and the promising future it holds. He also discusses the unique approach Phasecraft is taking to bridge the gap between theoretical algorithms and practical, commercially viable applications on near-term quantum hardware.Key Highlights:The Dual Focus of Phasecraft: Dr. Cubitt explains how Phasecraft is dedicated to algorithms and applications, avoiding traditional consultancy to drive technology forward through deep partnerships and collaborative development.Realistic Perspective on Quantum Computing: Despite the hype cycles, Dr. Cubitt maintains a consistent, cautiously optimistic outlook on the progress toward quantum advantage, emphasizing the complexity and long-term nature of the field.Commercial Viability and Algorithm Development: The discussion covers Phasecraft's strategic focus on material science and chemistry simulations as early applications of quantum computing, leveraging the unique strengths of quantum algorithms to tackle real-world problems.Innovative Algorithmic Approaches: Dr. Cubitt details Phasecraft's advancements in quantum algorithms, including new methods for time dynamics simulation and hybrid quantum-classical algorithms like Quantum enhanced DFT, which combine classical and quantum computing strengths.Future Milestones: The conversation touches on the anticipated breakthroughs in the next few years, aiming for quantum advantage and the significant implications for both scientific research and commercial applications.Papers Mentioned in this episode:Observing ground-state properties of the Fermi-Hubbard model using a scalable algorithm on a quantum computerTowards near-term quantum simulation of materialsEnhancing density functional theory using the variational quantum eigensolverDissipative ground state preparation and the Dissipative Quantum EigensolverOther sites:PhasecraftDr. Toby Cubitt's personal site

In this episode of The New Quantum Era podcast, hosts Sebastian Hassinger and Kevin Roney interview Jessica Pointing, a PhD student at Oxford studying quantum machine learning.Classical Machine Learning ContextDeep learning has made significant progress, as evidenced by the rapid adoption of ChatGPTNeural networks have a bias towards simple functions, which enables them to generalize well on unseen data despite being highly expressiveThis “simplicity bias” may explain the success of deep learning, defying the traditional bias-variance tradeoffQuantum Neural Networks (QNNs)QNNs are inspired by classical neural networks but have some key differencesThe encoding method used to input classical data into a QNN significantly impacts its inductive biasBasic encoding methods like basis encoding result in a QNN with no useful bias, essentially making it a random learnerAmplitude encoding can introduce a simplicity bias in QNNs, but at the cost of reduced expressivityAmplitude encoding cannot express certain basic functions like XOR/parityThere appears to be a tradeoff between having a good inductive bias and having high expressivity in current QNN frameworksImplications and Future DirectionsCurrent QNN frameworks are unlikely to serve as general purpose learning algorithms that outperform classical neural networksFuture research could explore:Discovering new encoding methods that achieve both good inductive bias and high expressivityIdentifying specific high-value use cases and tailoring QNNs to those problemsDeveloping entirely new QNN architectures and strategiesEvaluating quantum advantage claims requires scrutiny, as current empirical results often rely on comparisons to weak classical baselines or very small-scale experimentsIn summary, this insightful interview with Jessica Pointing highlights the current challenges and open questions in quantum machine learning, providing a framework for critically evaluating progress in the field. While the path to quantum advantage in machine learning remains uncertain, ongoing research continues to expand our understanding of the possibilities and limitations of QNNs.Paper cited in the episode:Do Quantum Neural Networks have Simplicity Bias?

Sebastian is joined by Susanne Yelin, Professor of Physics in Residence at Harvard University and the University of Connecticut.Susanne's Background:Fellow at the American Physical Society and Optica (formerly the American Optics Society)Background in theoretical AMO (Atomic, Molecular, and Optical) physics and quantum opticsTransition to quantum machine learning and quantum computing applicationsQuantum Machine Learning ChallengesLimited to simulating small systems (6-10 qubits) due to lack of working quantum computersBarren plateau problem: the more quantum and entangled the system, the worse the problemMoved towards analog systems and away from universal quantum computersQuantum Reservoir ComputingSubclass of recurrent neural networks where connections between nodes are fixedLearning occurs through a filter function on the outputsSuitable for analog quantum systems like ensembles of atoms with interactionsAdvantages: redundancy in learning, quantum effects (interference, non-commuting bases, true randomness)Potential for fault tolerance and automatic error correctionQuantum Chemistry ApplicationGoal: leverage classical chemistry knowledge and identify problems hard for classical computersCollaboration with quantum chemists Anna Krylov (USC) and Martin Head-Gordon (UC Berkeley)Focused on effective input-output between classical and quantum computersSimulating a biochemical catalyst molecule with high spin correlation using a combination of analog time evolution and logical gatesDemonstrating higher fidelity simulation at low energy scales compared to classical methodsFuture DirectionsExploring fault-tolerant and robust approaches as an alternative to full error correctionOptimizing pulses tailored for specific quantum chemistry calculationsInvestigating dynamics of chemical reactionsCalculating potential energy surfaces for moleculesImplementing multi-qubit analog ideas on the Rydberg atom array machine at HarvardDr. Yelin's work combines the strengths of analog quantum systems and avoids some limitations of purely digital approaches, aiming to advance quantum chemistry simulations beyond current classical capabilities.

Questions, suggestions, or feedback? Send us a message!In this episode we talk to Ali Eslami, who is a Principal Research Scientist at Google DeepMind studying artificial intelligence. He's currently also Director of Research Strategy for Google Gemini. Prior to this, he led a team at DeepMind working on generative models, self-supervised learning, multi-modal large language models. He also led the Quantum Chemistry and Materials team in Science.Prior to DeepMind, he was a post-doctoral researcher at Microsoft Research Cambridge. He did his PhD at the University of Edinburgh, where he was a Carnegie scholar. During that time he was also a visiting researcher at Oxford University in the visual geometry group.We talk about:The emergence of the AI landscapeWhether you need a body to understand the worldHuman perception slash PlatoThe difference between how humans and AI learnHow AI models are built and trainedDifferences between Machine learning and Generative AIMarcus Aurelius and how amazing the human brain isWhether we are about to surrender our sovereignty to AILet's log in!Web: www.whereshallwemeet.xyzTwitter: @whrshallwemeetInstagram: @whrshallwemeet

Welcome back to The New Quantum Era, the podcast where we explore the cutting-edge developments in quantum computing. In today's episode, hosts Sebastian Hassinger and Kevin Rowe are joined by Dr. Julien Camirand Lemyre, the CEO and co-founder of Nord Quantique. Nord Quantique is a startup spun out from the University of Sherbrooke in Quebec, Canada, and is making significant strides in the field of quantum error correction using innovative superconducting qubit designs. In this conversation, Dr. Camirand Lemyre shares insights into their groundbreaking research and the innovative approaches they are taking to improve quantum computing systems.Listeners can expect to learn about:Dr. Camirand Lemyre's journey into quantum computing and the founding of Nord Quantique.The unique approach Nord Quantique is taking with Bosonic code qubits and how they differ from traditional fermionic qubits.The recent research paper by Nord Quantique that demonstrates autonomous quantum error correction, a significant step forward in the field.The potential impact of these advancements on reducing the overhead of error correction in quantum systems.Future directions and next steps for Nord Quantique, including further optimization and development of their quantum technology.Highlights:Julien Camirand Lemyre's Background: Dr. Camirand Lemyre shares his academic journey and how it led to the founding of Nord Quantique.Bosonic Qubits: An exploration of how Nord Quantique is leveraging Bosonic qubits for better quantum error correction.Autonomous Quantum Error Correction: Discussion on the recent research paper and its implications for the field of quantum computing.Technological Innovations: Insights into the specific technological advancements and controls Nord Quantique is developing.Future Plans: Dr. Camirand Lemyre shares what's next for Nord Quantique and their ongoing research efforts.Mentioned in this episode:Nord Quantique: WebsiteUniversity of Sherbrooke: WebsiteInstitut Quantique: WebsiteQ-Ctrl: WebsiteTune in to hear about these exciting developments and what they mean for the future of quantum computing!

Welcome to another episode of The New Quantum Era! Today, we have a fascinating conversation with Professor Jens Eisert, a veteran in the field of quantum information science. Jens takes us through his journey from his PhD days, delving into the role of entanglement in quantum computing and communication, to leading a team that bridges theoretical and practical aspects of quantum technology. In this episode, we explore the fine line between classical and quantum worlds, the potential and limitations of near-term quantum devices, and the role of theoretical frameworks in advancing quantum technologies. Here are some key highlights from our conversation:Theoretical Limits and Practical Applications: Jens discusses his team's work on establishing theoretical limits and guidelines for what can be achieved with current quantum hardware, focusing on both long-term and near-term goals.Benchmarking and Certification: The importance of randomized benchmarking techniques is highlighted, including their role in diagnosing and improving quantum devices. Jens elaborates on how these techniques can provide detailed diagnostic information and their limitations in scalability.Error Mitigation and Non-Unit Noise: Insights into the impact of non-unit noise on quantum circuits and the limitations of error mitigation techniques, particularly concerning their scalability.Quantum Simulation and Near-Term Devices: Jens shares his cautious optimism about the potential for near-term quantum devices to achieve practical applications, particularly in the field of quantum simulation.Innovative and Foundational Research: The conversation touches on Jens' interest in both pioneering new fields and concluding existing ones. He shares intriguing research on the emergence of temperature in quantum systems and its potential implications for quantum algorithms.

Welcome to The New Quantum Era podcast! In today's episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of quantum computing and the broader tech landscape with Anastasia Marchenkova, who has a unique blend of experiences in startups, academia, and venture capital. Join us as we explore the intersections of technology, business, and education, and uncover the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the quantum era.Highlights from the Interview:Journey into Quantum Computing: Learn how our Anastasia's early experiences in quantum telecommunications and a serendipitous encounter with a startup led to a pivotal role at Rigetti Computing.Building and Scaling Startups: Insights into the startup ecosystem, including the importance of customer discovery, the challenges of scaling deep tech companies, and the role of non-dilutive funding from sources like DARPA.Interdisciplinary Innovations: Discover how principles from quantum computing are being applied to other cutting-edge fields like thermodynamic computing and AI, and the potential for cross-disciplinary breakthroughs.The Importance of Communication and Networking: Discussion on the critical role of communication skills in science and technology, and how building connections can drive innovation and collaboration.Future Vision and Education: Our guest's ambitious plans for bridging the gap between deep tech and the broader public through educational initiatives and media, aiming to inspire the next generation of technologists and entrepreneurs.Mentioned in This Episode:Rigetti Computing: A pioneering quantum computing startup.DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency): A key source of non-dilutive funding for deep tech projects.Quantum Benchmark: A company specializing in error characterization and mitigation for quantum computing, acquired by Keysight Technologies.Thermodynamic Computing: An emerging field aimed at reducing energy consumption in AI, with notable contributions from researchers like Patrick Coles, who founded Normal Computing, and Guillaume Verdun, who recently founded Extropic.VC Lab: An incubator program for training emerging venture capitalists.

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, Kevin and Sebastian are joined by a special guest, Paul Cadden-Zemansky, Associate Professor of Physics at Bard College and Director of the Physics Program. Paul is also on the Executive Committee for the International Year of Quantum at the American Physical Society and has been actively involved in the UN's recent declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. With the UN resolution now official, Paul joins us to discuss the significance and plans for this global celebration of quantum mechanics.Listeners can expect an insightful conversation covering the following key points:The Significance of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology: Paul explains the origins and importance of the UN's declaration, marking the 100th anniversary of quantum mechanics and its impact over the past century.Global Collaboration and Outreach: Discussion on the international cooperation involved in getting the resolution passed, including the involvement of various scientific societies and countries, and the emphasis on public awareness and education.Challenges and Strategies for Quantum Communication: Paul shares his thoughts on the difficulties of communicating complex quantum concepts to the public and the strategies to make quantum mechanics more accessible and engaging.Future Plans and Initiatives: Insights into the plans for 2025, including potential events, educational resources, and how individuals and organizations can get involved in promoting quantum science.Innovations in Quantum Visualization: Paul's work with students on new methods for visualizing complex quantum systems, including the development of tools to help understand two-qubit states.Mentioned in this episode:UN Declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and TechnologyAmerican Physical Society (APS)Quantum 2025 Website: quantum2025.orgPaul's Research Paper on Quantum Visualization on ArxivPaul's web-based visualization toolJoin us as we delve into the exciting world of quantum mechanics and explore the plans for celebrating its centennial year!

In this episode of The New Quantum Era, host Sebastian Hassinger comes to you again from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, during their launch event in April 2024 for the deployment of an IBM System One quantum computer on their campus. RPI invited me to lead a panel discussion with members of their faculty and IT team, and provided a podcast studio for my use for the remainder of the week, where he recorded a series of interviews. In this episode Sebastian interviews Di Fang, an assistant professor of mathematics at Duke University and member of the Duke Quantum Center. They discuss Dr. Fang's research on the theoretical aspects of quantum computing and quantum simulation, the potential for quantum computers to demonstrate quantum advantage over classical computers, and the need to balance theory with practical applications. Key topics and takeaways from the conversation include:- Dr. Fang's background as a mathematician and how taking a quantum computing class taught by Umesh Vazirani at UC Berkeley sparked her interest in the field of quantum information science- The potential for quantum computers to directly simulate quantum systems like molecules, going beyond the approximations required by classical computation- The importance of both proving theoretical bounds on quantum algorithms and working towards practical resource estimation and hardware implementation to demonstrate real quantum advantage- The stages of development needed to go from purely theoretical quantum advantage to solving useful real-world problems, and the role of Google's quantum XPRIZE competition in motivating practical applications- The long-term potential for quantum computing to have a disruptive impact like AI, but the risk of a "quantum winter" if practical results don't materialize, and the need for continued fundamental research by academics alongside industry efforts

Investors and companies in the life science industry have been betting a lot of money over the last few years on a single idea: that computation will help us get a lot better at developing new drugs. But the word “computation” covers a pretty broad range of techniques. And the reason that there are dozens if not hundreds of computational drug discovery startups popping up is that everyone has their own hypothesis about what specific kind of computation is going to be the most powerful.For example, you might be convinced that the most important thing is to understand the physics of protein-protein interactions, at an atomic level. And so you would put your money into atomic-scale simulations that show how proteins fold or unfold to form different shapes under different conditions. Or you might think that it's more important to model proteins at the molecular scale, to make predictions about whether and how a particular drug molecule might dock with a target protein. Or you might think that it's smarter to try to model whole cells and see how different molecular pathways interact to affect different functions of the cell. Or you might not care about the details of physics- or chemistry-based models at all. In that case could just take a big generative AI model, similar to a large language model, and train it on huge amounts of unlabeled data about genes and proteins in diseases cells and healthy cells to see what kinds of predictions it comes up with.It's too early to say which of these computational approaches—and which level or scale of focus—is going to be the most fruitful. But maybe you don't have to choose. Maybe you can bet on all of these different ideas, all at once. Harry's guests this week are the CEO and CSO of a startup that's taking an all-of-the-above approach. It's called Deep Origin, and it was formed last year from the merger of two companies founded by theoretical chemist Garegin Papoian and software builder Michael Antonov. Antonov helped to found the virtual reality hardware company Oculus. After Facebook acquired Oculus, he got curious about longevity and how software could help untangle the trillions of gene-protein interactions that mediate health and disease. He founded a company called Formic Labs to dig into that problem, and last year the company changed its name to Deep Origin. Papoian, meanwhile, is a former academic scientist who's who also took the helm as CEO of his startup AI and who's interested in how to use software to model molecular dynamics and quantum chemistry. Recently Antonov and Papoian decided to join forces, and Biosim AI merged into Deep Origin. They say the company's philosophy is that physics-based modeling by itself won't be enough to build a powerful drug discovery engine. But neither will generative AI, which requires more training data than lab scientists will ever be able to provide. They think the only reasonable approach today is to combine the two, and use both physics and AI to try to get better at predicting which molecules could become effective drugs.Exactly how Antonov and Papoian came to their conclusion, and how that integration is playing out, was the main theme of this week's conversation. It's important stuff, because if Deep Origin is right, then a lot of other more specialized biotech and techbio startups could be going down the wrong path. For a full transcript of this episode, please visit our episode page at http://www.glorikian.com/podcast Please rate and review The Harry Glorikian Show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Here's how to do that on Apple Podcasts:1. Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. 2. Navigate to The Harry Glorikian Show podcast. You can find it by searching for it or selecting it from your library. Just note that you'll have to go to the series page which shows all the episodes, not just the page for a single episode.3. Scroll down to find the subhead titled "Ratings & Reviews."4. Under one of the highlighted reviews, select "Write a Review."5. Next, select a star rating at the top — you have the option of choosing between one and five stars. 6. Using the text box at the top, write a title for your review. Then, in the lower text box, write your review. Your review can be up to 300 words long.7. Once you've finished, select "Send" or "Save" in the top-right corner. 8. If you've never left a podcast review before, enter a nickname. Your nickname will be displayed next to any reviews you leave from here on out. 9. After selecting a nickname, tap OK. Your review may not be immediately visible.On Spotify, the process is similar. Open the Spotify app, navigate to The Harry Glorikian Show, tap the three dots, then tap "Rate Show." Thanks!