How I'm building the Quantum Computer with Quantum Physicist Michelle Simmons
Jul 16, 2024
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Quantum physicist Michelle Simmons discusses Australian culture, quantum computing, and balancing art and science. She shares insights on building a quantum computer, teamwork, and resilience. The podcast explores quantum computing applications, challenges, and the intersection of quantum and AI. Simmons reflects on work-life balance, sacrifices, and beliefs in science and religion.
Quantum computing offers exponential speedup potential at atomic levels for faster computations.
Building a quantum computer aligns with understanding the world at its fundamental basis.
Australia should embrace its unique tech innovations to establish itself as a global tech powerhouse.
Deep dives
Importance of Quantum Computing and Exponential Speedup
Quantum computing operates at the smallest length scales, enabling computing at the atomic level with quantum states. This approach promises an exponential speedup compared to classical computing, allowing for much faster computations. Michelle Simmons, a prominent quantum physicist, emphasizes the transformative potential of quantum computing for civilization.
Challenges in Building Quantum Computers
Despite significant advancements, challenges exist in the growth of quantum computing. Delays reported in the news are attributed to companies overpromising rather than inherent delays in the field. Companies like Silicon Quantum Computing, led by Michelle Simmons, have raised substantial funding to develop quantum computers.
Driving Factors and Philosophical Beliefs in Quantum Computing
Michelle Simmons is motivated by challenging technological problems and understanding the fundamental workings of the world. Building a quantum computer represents a pursuit of perfection akin to understanding the world as close to its fundamental basis as possible. Her conviction stems from the belief that improving tools to comprehend the world will lead to a better understanding and improvement of the world as a whole.
Encouraging Resilience in Manufacturing
Manufacturing processes involve a 38-stage challenging process that requires resilience. The speaker emphasizes the importance of failure as a crucial part of the learning process in manufacturing. By fostering a culture of persistence, individuals can overcome challenges and experience the satisfaction of successfully manufacturing devices.
Australia's Unique Technological Identity
The podcast addresses the need for Australia to embrace its unique technological innovations rather than seeking validation from other countries. It highlights the potential of Australian technology in various fields like bioengineering, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. By leveraging its distinctive capabilities, Australia can establish itself as a tech powerhouse on the global stage.
Michelle Simmons is a leading Quantum Physicist, former Australian of the year and founder of Silicon Quantum Computing. She pioneered the world’s first single atom transistor and is attempting to produce the first integrated circuit at an atomic scale. We had a wide ranging conversation with her on DNA, quantum supremacy, geopolitics, religion and so much more.
About us
We tell the raw stories of the world’s tech leaders, by asking the vulnerable questions that no one else does. Guests have included former Prime Ministers, unicorn tech founders and the world’s top investors. Join us for these interviews and get a real behind the scenes look into 25 year old best friends building the company of their dreams.
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