Quantum is coming – with Thomas Searles
Physicist Thomas A. Searles explores the near-term applications of quantum information technology and how we can be involved.
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Watch the Q&A here (exclusively for our Science Supporters): https://youtu.be/RXv-qV2yxpg
This lecture was recorded on 9 June 2025 in collaboration with Blackett Lab Family.
Quantum information technology is expected to disrupt critical communication, computing, and sensing infrastructure. Importantly, each near-term application of quantum information is recognised globally as a challenge in both a scientific and technological sense. Just as important as technical advancements, the quantum industry also requires a trained, skilled workforce and a vast investment in quantum education.
Now, in the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, join quantum engineer Thomas A. Searles as he uncovers the origin stories of African-American quantum scientists and their contributions to the quantum revolution, but also how people can be involved in the quantum revolution of today. Keen to inspire the next generation of quantum scientists, Thomas will be sharing activities and experiments fit for all ages to create opportunities for collaboration while building a safer, quantum-smart future.
This event is in collaboration with Blackett Lab Family.
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Thomas Searles is a quantum engineer, and experimental condensed matter physicist, from Albany, GA, USA. In 2021, Searles joined the University of Illinois Chicago as an Associate Professor, under the University System’s Distinguished Faculty Recruitment Program. Prior to UIC, he was a Martin Luther King Visiting Professor at MIT and the Director of the IBM-HBCU Quantum Center at Howard University.
In recognition for his research in light-matter interactions and his capability to mentor students in Physics and Engineering, Thomas was awarded the inaugural AIP-NSBP Joseph A. Johnson Award for Excellence, the 2025 BEYA for Educational Leadership and an NSF CAREER Award. Additionally, Thomas serves as President-elect of the National Society of Black Physicists, an APS DLS Distinguished Traveling Lecturer and member-at-large of the US National Committee for Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, National Academies. Most importantly, Thomas is a lifelong Arsenal supporter and is eager to explore how quantum science and artificial intelligence can help his club achieve Champions League trophies and Premier League titles in the near term.
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Physicist Thomas A. Searles explores the near-term applications of quantum information technology and how we can be involved.
Join this channel to get access to perks:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYeF244yNGuFefuFKqxIAXw/join
Watch the Q&A here (exclusively for our Science Supporters): https://youtu.be/RXv-qV2yxpg
This lecture was recorded on 9 June 2025 in collaboration with Blackett Lab Family.
Quantum information technology is expected to disrupt critical communication, computing, and sensing infrastructure. Importantly, each near-term application of quantum information is recognised globally as a challenge in both a scientific and technological sense. Just as important as technical advancements, the quantum industry also requires a trained, skilled workforce and a vast investment in quantum education.
Now, in the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, join quantum engineer Thomas A. Searles as he uncovers the origin stories of African-American quantum scientists and their contributions to the quantum revolution, but also how people can be involved in the quantum revolution of today. Keen to inspire the next generation of quantum scientists, Thomas will be sharing activities and experiments fit for all ages to create opportunities for collaboration while building a safer, quantum-smart future.
This event is in collaboration with Blackett Lab Family.
—
Thomas Searles is a quantum engineer, and experimental condensed matter physicist, from Albany, GA, USA. In 2021, Searles joined the University of Illinois Chicago as an Associate Professor, under the University System’s Distinguished Faculty Recruitment Program. Prior to UIC, he was a Martin Luther King Visiting Professor at MIT and the Director of the IBM-HBCU Quantum Center at Howard University.
In recognition for his research in light-matter interactions and his capability to mentor students in Physics and Engineering, Thomas was awarded the inaugural AIP-NSBP Joseph A. Johnson Award for Excellence, the 2025 BEYA for Educational Leadership and an NSF CAREER Award. Additionally, Thomas serves as President-elect of the National Society of Black Physicists, an APS DLS Distinguished Traveling Lecturer and member-at-large of the US National Committee for Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, National Academies. Most importantly, Thomas is a lifelong Arsenal supporter and is eager to explore how quantum science and artificial intelligence can help his club achieve Champions League trophies and Premier League titles in the near term.
—
The Ri is on Twitter: http://twitter.com/ri_science
and Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/royalinstitution
and TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ri_science
Listen to the Ri podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ri-science-podcast
Donate to the RI and help us bring you more lectures: https://www.rigb.org/support-us/donate-ri
Our editorial policy: https://www.rigb.org/editing-ri-talks-and-moderating-comments
Subscribe for the latest science videos: http://bit.ly/RiNewsletter
Product links on this page may be affiliate links which means it won’t cost you any extra but we may earn a small commission if you decide to purchase through the link.
