All-In with Chamath, Jason, Sacks & Friedberg Nobel Prize in Physics Winner: John Martinis on the State of Quantum
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Oct 27, 2025 
Join John Martinis, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist renowned for his groundbreaking work in quantum computing, as he takes listeners on a captivating journey through the world of quantum mechanics. He explains complex concepts like quantum tunneling and the role of superconducting qubits in modern technology. Martinis discusses the competitive landscape of quantum research between the U.S. and China, and reflects on the implications of AI for quantum advancements. Plus, hear his personal reaction to winning the Nobel Prize and his future scientific dreams!
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Hands-On Origins Shaped A Physicist
- John Martinis grew up in San Pedro, built things with his father, and developed a hands-on, empirical approach to physics.
- That background led him to UC Berkeley and into graduate work on quantum electrical devices under John Clarke.
Wave Nature Explains Atomic Behavior
- Quantum mechanics was developed for microscopic systems but describes electrons as extended wave functions, not point particles.
- That wave nature explains atomic sizes and non-intuitive behaviors like superposition and discrete energy levels.
Tunneling Is A Real, Predictable Effect
- Tunneling arises because particle wavefunctions extend into and through barriers, giving a nonzero chance to appear on the other side.
- This effect is common in devices and becomes significant when barriers are only a few atoms thick.