Published: Sept. 19, 2019

Regional scientists and engineers connect at inaugural Kavli Quantum Hour With generous support from , the CUbit Quantum Initiative has launched a series of Kavli Quantum Hours. These periodic events provide an informal setting designed to foster broader communications and establish new links among quantum scientists and engineers at CU Boulder, NIST and Front Range companies. The broader goal is to enhance collaboration among local quantum interests as part of a vision to make the region the Quantum Capital of the Nation.

The first Kavli Quantum Hour took place on September 12, 2019 at the Idea Forge Commons on the CU Boulder campus. About 35 people participated, including Dr. Jun Ye, director of CUbit, andrepresentatives from NIST Boulder Labs, CU Boulder, the Colorado School of Mines, CO-LABS, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, ColdQuanta, Toptica, Vescent, High Precision Devicesand Stable Laser Systems.

In a well-received model that will be carried forward for one company at each future Kavli Quantum Hour, Dr. Kristen Pudenz gave a brief overview of Lockheed Martin's broad interests, activities and applications in quantum science and engineering. "As a systems integrator, Lockheed Martin is looking for quantum sensors, computers and communications that enhance our vehicles and other products,” said Pudenz. “Quantum technologies may contribute to enhanced performance or security, or more efficient and effective design processes. It was a certainly a useful networking opportunity."

"Seminars, conferences and publications are the usual routes for disseminating and learning about advances in any field of science or engineering,” Ye said, “but periodic, informal get-togethers like the KQH open different windows to the latest research and application interests of a diverse set of colleagues, all in one friendly and stimulating setting."

The next Kavli Quantum Hour will convene in January 2020.