Recognized as a pioneer in quantum information research and technology, Laflamme was appointed to the Order of Canada for his significant scientific and leadership contributions to the country.
“It is truly an honour to become an Officer of the Order of Canada,” said Laflamme. “It is an honour to be shared because it would not have happened without the many who have inspired and helped me to develop quantum information science and technology in Waterloo, in Canada and around the world.”
In 15 years serving as founding executive director, Laflamme’s leadership established the Institute for Quantum Computing as a world-class research hub, positioning Canada at the forefront of the quantum revolution.
“Raymond has been instrumental in making the Institute’s vision a reality,” said Feridun Hamdullahpur, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Waterloo. “As the driving force in bringing together the world’s brightest minds and putting Canada on the map for quantum research, his impact has been immeasurable.”
Laflamme holds the Canada Research Chair in Quantum Information and the Mike and Ophelia Lazaridis “John von Neumann” Chair in Quantum Information.
He was recruited to the University of Waterloo from Los Alamos National Labs by former University of Waterloo President and former Governor General, the Right Honourable David Johnston, and BlackBerry founder Mike Lazaridis. He joined the Department of Physics and Astronomy, the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics and directed the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research program on quantum information science for 15 years.
At Cambridge University Laflamme earned his PhD under the supervision of Stephen Hawking. He is credited with changing Hawking’s mind on the reversal of the direction of time in a contracting universe.
A private reception was held at the Rideau Club, Ottawa on Thursday in celebration of Laflamme and his achievements.
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada, one of our country’s highest civilian honours, recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.