Thomas Alexander

Growing up on Canada’s east coast, THOMAS ALEXANDER was always interested in science. It wasn’t until his undergraduate years at Mount Allison University where he studied physics and minored in both computer science and mathematics that he was first introduced to the field of quantum information. “I was intrigued with quantum computing because it combined my love of physics and computer science,” said Alexander. “I took an online course in quantum information theory to learn more.”

Alexander applied to USEQIP after one of his professors suggested it would be right up his alley. His professor was right – Alexander felt USEQIP was the perfect fit. He enjoyed the engaging lectures, but his favourite part was getting hands-on with experiments in the lab. The USEQIP experience prepared him for the time he spent afterwards as an undergraduate research assistant (URA) with IQC faculty member DAVID CORY and former PhD student CHRISTOPHER GRANADE. Alexander contributed to the hardware and software aspects of an experimental system at IQC connected to neutron interferometers located at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Maryland, US. He wrote his honours undergraduate thesis on the work.

Now, he’s returned to IQC as a Master’s student studying physics and quantum information with Cory, his former URA supervisor. He even volunteers as a USEQIP leader for the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) lab at USEQIP. “My experience at USEQIP led me on a career trajectory that I didn’t think was achievable at the time,” attests Alexander. He is currently studying silicon phosphorous with NMR, an interesting system that could be useful for quantum computing and quantum sensing. “There are very few places in the world that have the critical mass of expertise in quantum information science that IQC does. This is the best place to study experimental quantum computing in Canada.”