A Physical Chemist's Journey to Quantum Science and Technology

For the past century, quantum mechanics has been the foundation of our understanding of the world around us. Recently, "quantum" has re-emerged as a transformative theme, driven by scientific breakthroughs and its potential to revolutionize future technology. In this talk, I will share my journey to the fascinating world of "quantum," which began as a spectroscopist studying how the electrons "dance" in chemical and condensed matter systems. I will discuss how we use atomically thin materials to create engineered quantum systems, enabling us to simulate complex behaviors of strongly interacting electrons. I will also describe how we leverage solid-state atom-like defects to develop essential building blocks for quantum communication networks and create exquisite quantum sensors for probing chemical and biological processes. These examples illustrate how the principles and tools of quantum mechanics impact diverse fields, including physics, chemistry, and biology, and lay the groundwork for future technologies that might transform our lives.