Building Quantum Computers in Academia and Industry

Quantum computers exploit the bizarre features of quantum physics — uncertainty, entanglement, and measurement — to perform tasks that are impossible using conventional means. These may include the computing and optimizing over ungodly amounts of data; breaking encryption standards; simulating models of chemistry and materials; and communicating via quantum teleportation. The most promising physical platform being developed today are based on individual atoms, controlled with laser light and ultimately networked using single optical photons. I will summarize this technological development, which has demanded approaches from academia, government, and industry.

Chirstopher Monroe

Distinguished Professor, Duke University on April 10, 2026 at 10:15 AM in EB2 1231
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Christopher Monroe is the Gilhuly Family Presidential Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Physics at Duke University. He is also the Co-Founder and Chief Scientist of IonQ, Inc., the first public quantum computing company. Monroe has pioneered nearly all aspects of atom-based quantum computers and simulators, from demonstrations of the first quantum gate, monolithic semiconductor-chip ion trap, and photonic interconnects between physically separated qubits; to the design, fabrication, and use of full-stack ion trap quantum computer systems in both university and industrial settings. He is a key architect of the US National Quantum Initiative, a Fellow of the American Physical Society, Optical Society of America, the UK Institute of Physics, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and is a member of the National Academy of Sciences.

This lecture series features exciting and dynamic visiting and virtual speakers from across the range of ECE disciplines. Take some time every Friday morning to be inspired by these great scientists and engineers before heading into the weekend!