Industry Archives

Bruna Shinohara de Mendonça

While she specializes in quantum algorithm development, Dr. Bruna Shinohara de Mendonça is also a passionate science communicator and educator. She holds a PhD in Physics from the University of São Paulo, with research contributing to advancements in topological quantum computing.

Shinohara de Mendonça also co-founded QBrasil, a free initiative to popularize quantum technologies in Portuguese, and developed the first mini-course on quantum computing for undergraduate physics students at the University of São Paulo, reaching over 160 participants. She actively engages in public discourse on ethical considerations in quantum technologies, including global inequities in access and impact, and has presented her insights in the U.S., Netherlands, Brazil, and South Korea.

In addition, Shinohara de Mendonça shares her expertise online, including appearances on Brazil’s high-profile podcast Inteligência Ltda, and reaching over 17,000 followers online. Her work integrates technical expertise, education, and outreach, driven by a commitment to democratizing knowledge and making quantum science accessible worldwide.

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Michael J. Biercuk

Professor Michael J. Biercuk is the CEO and Founder of quantum technology company Q-CTRL, and Professor of Quantum Physics Technology at the University of Sydney. His work spans the intersection of AI, defense, and quantum physics, focused on making quantum technology useful in real world applications through the power of quantum control.

Biercuk’s team achieved the first demonstrated commercial quantum advantage, in which Q-CTRL’s quantum-assured navigation solution outperformed high-end classical navigation systems, helping to address critical vulnerabilities in GPS-dependent navigation and with implications for international infrastructure, defense, and commercial aviation. In quantum computing, his leadership led Q-CTRL to be the first software company to integrate its products with a major quantum computing cloud platform, enabling a world record for the largest maximally entangled state at 75 qubits.

Biercuk champions quantum workforce development through his academic role and Black Opal, Q-CTRL’s accessible education platform designed for learners from all backgrounds. Through partnerships with technical schools in India and the All India Council for Technical Education, he is expanding quantum education access globally. His previous roles include research fellowships at NIST Boulder and technical consulting for DARPA, guiding government investments in quantum information. His contributions have earned multiple awards spanning research, innovation, and commercial technology development.

Maria Longobardi

Dr. Maria Longobardi is the Executive Director and Head of Young Researchers at Switzerland’s National Quantum Center, NCCR SPIN, where she combines quantum physics, education, outreach, and international collaboration to foster a connected and inclusive quantum community.

She has launched several initiatives to broaden access to quantum, including a course on quantum algorithms for women in Africa. Among other projects, Longobardi promotes collaborations between artists and scientists. She launched QuantaArt at the NCCR SPIN, including an artist-in-residence program, and co-directed Quantum Jubilee and QuantumFest at the APS Global Summit 2025. These events combine music, movement, and storytelling to make quantum science engaging and relatable. Through these efforts, she has fostered creative collaborations between young scientists and artists, transforming complex ideas into accessible experiences for everyone.

Longobardi is also actively involved in science diplomacy worldwide and promotes global partnerships between academia and industry. She advises organizations such as the American Physical Society, UNESCO, and the European Commission. She is an APS Fellow and has been recognized as one of the Inspiring Fifty, as one of the 50 most inspiring women in science and technology, in both Italy and the UK. Longobardi is a committed advocate for equity, creativity, and ethical responsibility in quantum research. Her leadership combines scientific rigor with innovative communication, shaping a quantum field that is both inclusive and groundbreaking.

Masahide Sasaki

Dr. Masahide Sasaki has developed quantum communication technology since 2000. He led the deployment of the Tokyo QKD Network in 2010, a first-of-its-kind metropolitan quantum key distribution testbed that integrated quantum-secure communication into practical infrastructure. He also organized the Updating Quantum Cryptography and Communications (UQCC) conference, bringing together innovation and industry communities and directly contributing to the commercialization of QKD by major companies since 2020.

Sasaki launched the Quantum Forum in 2019, a consortium producing technical documents for QKD device certification to support market deployment. As chair of major conferences, including QCMC and QCrypt, he has organized academic sessions and public demonstrations, strengthening international collaboration.

Since 2020, he has ran NICT Quantum Camp, training over 50 researchers and engineers annually, contributing to quantum workforce development alongside his contributions to research, standardization, and cybersecurity policy frameworks.

Emirhan Güler

Alongside his studies as a physics undergraduate at İzmir Institute of Technology, Emirhan Güler is championing quantum science engagement and community.

As President of the QTurkey Student Branch, he organized the 2nd IZTECH Quantum Days, one of the biggest quantum events in Turkey, bringing together over 350 participants. Managing all aspects of the program, the event has since become a hub for scientific exchange, international collaboration, and student engagement, integrating hands-on laboratory experiences for participants and creating an inclusive and intellectually vibrant environment despite resource constraints.

Güler’s dedication to quantum science goes beyond research, emphasizing open communication, inclusivity, and the cultivation of a connected quantum community. His efforts have set a new standard for student-led scientific initiatives in Turkey, inspiring peers and fostering the next generation of quantum scientists.

Noorunnisha Mohammad

Noorunnisha Mohammad has established herself as a significant figure in quantum security through her technical innovation and advocacy.

Recognizing the urgent need for organizations to address quantum threats, she developed Chronos, a practical and accessible tool designed for business applications that identifies cryptographic vulnerabilities and provides actionable solutions.

Beyond innovation, Mohammad is a leading voice in the community. Having worked with an impressive range of global institutions, Mohammad engages broader industry in quantum and encourages wider business preparedness to ensure a more secure future. She has contributed significantly to advancing cybersecurity practices across diverse and challenging environments.