Serving as scientific director of Quantum City at the University of Calgary, Professor Barry Sanders is spearheading initiatives to create a flourishing quantum ecosystem in Canada. His work spans quantum computing, quantum sensing and metrology, and more, and he has trained numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows who now hold key positions across academia, industry, and start-ups worldwide.

Sanders is committed to expanding access to quantum education and resources globally. He has organized and taught summer schools and workshops in countries including Brazil, Pakistan, India, Iran, and Morocco, and has supported student training from Africa. Through initiatives such as Quantum Africa, he has increased skills and awareness in quantum science, emphasizing inclusive participation and practical applications.

Sanders plays a key role in shaping the broader quantum ecosystem. He engages with policymakers, NATO workshops, and international networks to advance collaborative research, technology adoption, and workforce development. His efforts strengthen global quantum capacity, promote equal access to knowledge, and nurture partnerships that integrate research, education, and societal impact across continents.

Dr. Megan Lee is building a more inclusive, impactful, and community-driven quantum future. As Managing Director of Quantum City at the University of Calgary, she has facilitated partnerships between academia, industry, and policymakers to accelerate the adoption of quantum while ensuring broad access to knowledge and opportunities.

Lee has helped establish Alberta’s quantum solutions hub and implemented programs that enable startups, researchers, and educators to contribute to the growing quantum ecosystem. She has promoted equity and inclusivity in science, creating pathways for all voices to participate in discoveries in quantum. Her initiatives have strengthened connections between research and industry while encouraging a more diverse quantum workforce.

By bridging sectors and promoting collaborative innovation, Lee ensures that quantum developments are accessible, actionable, and socially conscious. Lee’s work emphasizes the practical impact of quantum science on communities and industry, supporting projects that advance both innovation and social responsibility.