Pathway to Quantum, part 2
Meet Entropica Labs’ Tech Interns!
This week, we are proud to turn the spotlight onto our tech interns at Entropica Labs. As a quantum computing startup, we enjoy the unique balance of exploring pure science, while probing real-world quantum solutions. In the growing field of quantum computing, we do our best to foster a scientific research environment that allows a wide range of quantum computing problems to be explored and developed. Through our collaborative research approach, we thrive to do the most with quantum computing, today.
This week we asked our tech interns a few questions to shed light on their experience with Entropica Labs and with the broader quantum computing field. First, we have Vishal, a Physics Master’s student at Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München. He has answered a few questions regarding his time with us. Next, we have Gideon, a Physical Sciences student at Yale-NUS College ’21, who has written a free response to his thoughts.
Vishal, if there was one thing you could tell the world about the future of quantum computing, what would it be?
I believe the future of quantum computing will be a gradual event unfolding in several challenging stages. This vision is opposed to a revolutionary, overnight paradigm-shifting future (an unfortunate, albeit popular public opinion). Therefore, there is an immense need for generations of brilliant minds dedicated to solving these obstacles and for the preceding generations to inspire them. Quantum computing will undoubtedly be at the forefront with other marvels produced by humanity; the only question is when.
What is the most satisfying thing you’ve learnt about quantum computing since joining Entropica Labs?
My perception of quantum computing before working at Entropica Labs was of an end-goal of achieving error-corrected general-purpose quantum computing. However, one of the most crucial realisations I have had is that there will be several eras of development. Hence the ability to extract utility from the intermediary devices via algorithmic research will generate industrial relevance.
What were some misconceptions you had before joining a quantum computing startup? How have they changed?
This is not really a misconception, but I was always interested in understanding the business models of startups based on such a nascent technology. Now, I can much better appreciate the contribution of these companies to the ecosystem.
What’s it like working for a company like Entropica?
I have been fascinated by quantum computing ever since my undergraduate years. I feel quite grateful for this opportunity to work on something with the potential to have such massive societal impacts. I know we are still a long way from originating such monumental changes. And yet, as a physicist, the ability to control quantum phenomena via a few clicks sitting casually at your desk is highly underrated. Ultimately, the cherry on the top is to be part of a cohesive and highly talented team of young students and mentors!
Physics in a liberal arts environment often prizes basic science over engineering. For instance, my previous experiences include working on exotic quantum phenomena such as Many-Body Localisation or the Casimir effect. However, I eventually realised I wanted to strike a balance between fundamental and applied topics in physics, and quantum computing is as applied as frontier physics gets.
Working in quantum software at Entropica Labs does not feel too different from doing an academic research assistantship. The main distinction is that somewhere in the back of your mind, you have to think about the fact that at some point, the work you’re doing has to contribute to a real-world solution. Even as physics is beautiful — we aren’t just doing physics for physic’s sake!
We get very excited about the potential applications of quantum computing to solve problems faster and better. However, the quantum information revolution also represents a fundamental reframing of how we perceive reality itself. Just as all data on your computer can be broken down into 1s and 0s — bits, it seems like all of reality can be broken down into quantum superpositions of 1s and 0s — qubits. Hence, as they say, it from qubit.
Physicists have known this for a while now, but I think quantum computing is the actual means by which this paradigm shift spreads. We live in a world built on the foundations of probabilities and uncertainties, and the consequences have become inevitable.
That’s all for today. We are excited to share more of our team in the next coming weeks, so stay tuned!
Also — We are hiring! For the latest updates on the open roles at Entropica Labs, do visit our website at https://entropicalabs.com/
Alternatively, you can contact Entropica Labs directly at careers@entropicalabs.com. Do attach a copy of your latest CV and a brief cover letter to tell us why you would be a great fit for the Team. We are always on the lookout for great people and we would love to hear from you!
Entropica Labs is a Singapore-based startup, with roots in the Singapore’s Centre for Quantum Technologies (NUS). We create algorithms, software, methods and models to make quantum computers useful. The current focus at Entropica is quantum optimisation and machine learning, supporting enterprise customers to understand and integrate quantum computing. You can contact us at info@entropicalabs.com if you wish to get in touch.
Written by Alexandrine, Business Strategist at Entropica Labs.
