Future graduate students

Thursday, April 14, 2022 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Quantum Perspectives: Sensing

Quantum sensors allow us to measure with incredible accuracy, precision and selectivity. Future quantum devices that achieve these ultimate sensing qualities by harnessing the complexities of atoms, photons and semiconductors will play a critical role in improving applications such as medical technology, radar, geological exploration, molecular imaging and more.

We need new experimental techniques to build these devices. In this panel discussion, we’ll hear from three leading experts in the Waterloo region who are pushing boundaries to develop new sensing technologies based on quantum mechanics:

Michael Reimer, Assistant Professor at IQC and the University of Waterloo’s Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering who is developing highly efficient photon detectors

Kostadinka Bizheva, Professor at the University of Waterloo’s Department of Physics & Astronomy who is working on new techniques for optical coherence tomography (OCT)

Troy Borneman, Senior Scientist at High Q Technologies who is building sensitive superconducting resonators for medical sensing applications.


Quantum Perspectives: A Panel Series celebrates 20 years of quantum at IQC. Over the past two decades, IQC’s leading quantum research has powered the development of transformative technologies, from ideas to commercialization, through research in theory, experiment and quantum applications. This year, we’re diving in to all aspects of quantum in celebration of IQC’s 20th anniversary with a panel series exploring all perspectives of quantum, including sensing, materials, communication, simulation and computing.

Thursday, March 31, 2022 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Concept $5k Finals

Student teams have practiced and perfected their pitches and are ready to compete at the virtual Concept $5K Finals! Watch these incredible pitches live online and be sure to vote on your favourite team to help crown the People’s Champ. These are ideas that could change the world and not something you want to miss!

Tuesday, March 29, 2022 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Quantum Valley Investments Problem Pitch Competition

Problem Analysis is the most important first step in creating a successful startup. Join @uwproblemlab on March 29th to hear million dollar ideas from student teams competing for a chance at $7,500 in R&D.

Tuesday, March 22, 2022 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

The Importance of Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Do you know what sustainable and inclusive entrepreneurship mean? Are you looking for advice or to get involved?

Join the conversation on inclusive entrepreneurship within Waterloo’s innovation ecosystem, in partnership with LiftOff by the Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region. Engage with key panelists who will share unique perspectives and insights on what’s happening today and moving forward, including a focus on UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Thursday, March 31, 2022 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Indigenous Speakers Series presents Lenore Keeshig

The Indigenous Speakers Series is honoured to present Lenore Keeshig, storyteller, poet, author, and naturalist, for our first in-person event in more than two years.

Tuesday, March 22, 2022 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

WORLD WATER DAY 2022 - The Legacy of Environmental Racism in North America

The Legacy of Environmental Racism in North America: Perspectives from Canada and the United States

This event will feature presentations from two high-profile advocates who are leading community-level resistance movements against environmental racism followed by an interactive, student-led discussion.

Scientists of all backgrounds and genders, have made important contributions in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), but the participation of women remains low in many areas of STEM, including physics. What can we do to build an inclusive STEM community? Shohini Ghose, IQC affiliate and Director of the Laurier Centre for Women in Science (WinS) will discuss data that can shed light on where we stand today and describe a practical framework for increasing access and inclusion in STEM.

Friday, March 11, 2022 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm EST (GMT -05:00)

Y Combinator Spring Tour at University of Waterloo

Join us for a for a talk with YC Group Partner Michael Seibel and Faire Founder Marcelo Cortes. Michael talks myths that exist around starting startups, what you should do while you’re still in school & how YC can help you. Marcelo shares his founder journey, YC experience & advice for starting a company. Q & A to follow.

Attendees will be eligible for $1K in stackable AWS credits and $350 in Developer Support plan credits.

Friday, March 11, 2022 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm EST (GMT -05:00)

Y Combinator Spring Tour at University of Waterloo

Join us for a for a talk with YC Group Partner Michael Seibel and Faire Founder Marcelo Cortes. Michael talks myths that exist around starting startups, what you should do while you’re still in school & how YC can help you. Marcelo shares his founder journey, YC experience & advice for starting a company. Q & A to follow.

Attendees will be eligible for $1K in stackable AWS credits and $350 in Developer Support plan credits.