Ria Chakraborty is completing her 2A term in the Mathematical Physics program at the University of Waterloo. Ria is a student with many talents and interests ranging from arts to quantum computing. She is taking full advantage of the opportunities at this university and develops her skills as a research and also engages with quantum start-ups.
Ria has been inspired by strong role models to use her education to have a positive impact on people’s lives. These role models include Ms. Leela Acharya, her high school guidance counselor; Canadian physician Lucille Teasdale-Corti, who established a Ugandan university hospital during very difficult circumstances; Prof. Shohini Ghose, Professor at Laurier University and adjunct faculty at U Waterloo; and Dr. Agata Branczyk, PSI Fellow at the Perimeter Institute and again adjunct faculty with U Waterloo.
Ria was drawn to physics because of her curiosity about how things work.
The Region’s strong reputation for Physics stemming from the Department of Physics & Astronomy, the Perimeter Institute and the Institute for Quantum Computing helped Ria decide that Waterloo was the best place to further her education.
The interest in quantum computing was sparked by her attendance at a conference talk by DWave (Vancouver-based quantum company) and as a result, Ria sought out further opportunities in the field of quantum technologies. Last term she worked on two quantum projects part time, one outside the university and one inside. The Bank of Canada Quantum Lab is exploring the potential impact of quantum in economics. One of the applications of quantum computing is in breaking cryptosystems. Ria learned about applying so-called post-quantum cryptography methods (cryptosystems that are believed to be secure against quantum computing) in the emerging area of cryptocurrencies, which include Bitcoin and Etherium as well-known examples. She also worked on the Quantum Encryption and Science Satellite (QEYSSAT) project under the supervision of Prof. Thomas Jennewein at the Institute for Quantum Computing. This project aims to put a quantum satellite in space to enable long-distance quantum cryptography. Ria’s first co-op position just started this term under the supervision of Prof. Crystal Senko. Prof Senko’s group specializes in quantum computing with ions that are trapped, cooled and manipulated using laser beams in an electromagnetic trap.
Ria is looking forward to future co-op positions in quantum, particularly in the quantum industry. With the excellent Department of Physics & Astronomy, the nearby Institute for Quantum Computing and Perimeter Institute, and the Quantum Valley ecosystem in the Region, Ria is at the ideal place to learn about the field and to access exciting opportunities in academic and commercial research.
