Sparking curiosity at Youth Quantum Symposium
The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo hosted its first Youth Quantum Symposium earlier this year, connecting keen minds with researchers and fostering their interest in quantum information science.
The day-long event welcomed undergraduate and high-school students who heard from keynote speakers Dr. Christine Muschik, IQC faculty and Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy, and IQC PhD student Alex Maierean, co-founder and CEO of startup Phantom Photonics. Many other graduate students from University of Waterloo’s Faculties of Science, Engineering and Mathematics presented theoretical and experimental research in quantum information.
“It was incredible to see the enthusiasm the participants brought to the symposium to engage with new ideas in quantum science and technology. IQC's graduate students graciously offered their expertise and passion for science communication, showcasing a number of exciting developments and opportunities for young quantum scientists.”
- John Donohue, Senior Manager, Scientific Outreach at IQC.
IQC's Youth Quantum Symposium was a day-long event for undergraduate and high-school students fostering their interest in quantum information science.
Dr. Christine Muschik's presentation 'From Curious to Researcher: Physics with AI'
John Donohue, IQC's Senior Manager, Scientific Outreach, said participants brought enthusiasm to the symposium.
IQC's outreach team brings quantum science beyond the lab.
IQC PhD student Forouzan Forouharmanesh presenting 'Exploring Quantum Worlds When Atoms Get Ultracold'
Scientific outreach is a core pillar of IQC’s mission to develop and advance quantum information science and technology. The institute engages thousands of people every year through class visits, quantum lab days, and science fairs and festivals and popular recurring programs Quantum School for Young Students (QSYS), Undergraduate School on Experimental Quantum Information Processing (USEQIP), and Quantum for Educators (QEd).