By Alice Carlson

The second annual Quantum Investment Summit took place in April at The Hall CP, attracting a large crowd of experts who are using quantum physics to shape the future of computing. 

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The panel discusses emerging technology during the UMD conference.
Credit: Lauren Reeder

Presenters included Kiera Peltz and Sahil Tapiawala, among others. Peltz is executive director at Qubit by Qubit, a startup that seeks to educate students about quantum computing, starting in middle school. Tapiawala, who co-founded Singapore-based Atomionics, discussed how the startup uses quantum sensors to locate energy sources.

Quantum Startup Foundry, an incubator at the University of Maryland (UMD), hosted the event. Piotyr Kulczakowicz, QSF director, stated in a media release that the incubator aims to establish the DMV as the capital of quantum; the April summit was designed with this in mind. Researchers and investors from around the world came to College Park to participate in the event.

“This groundbreaking research must be translated and shared with industry leaders, government agencies, innovative startups and other partners so that it can have a direct and equitable impact on the world. Making those connections is a vital part of why we are all here today to share knowledge and ideas about what the future of quantum is in the state of Maryland, the nation and the world,” said Greg Ball, vice president of research at the university.

UMD’s College Park and Baltimore campuses are hubs for quantum research. The university’s annual allocation for this approaches $1.4 billion, placing the university 10 in the country, according to UMD President Daryll Pines, who spoke at the event. Pines also noted the university’s great location, close to many other research facilities, and its  impressive faculty. 

“We are industry leaders. We have the elements necessary to continue to be that industry leader in this field. And ultimately, we’ll be the ones, along with all of you, to radically change the world. That’s because in addition to cutting edge resources and great researchers, we also have the commitment to value driven excellence.” Pines said.