Physics World Weekly Podcast

According to a recent white paper from the UK’s National Association of Disabled Staff Networks, 22% of working-age people in the UK have a disability compared to less than 7% of people working in science. At the upper echelons of science, only 4% of senior academic positions are filled with people with disabilities and just 1% of research grant applications to UK Research and Innovation are from researchers who disclose being disabled. These disappointing statistics are reported in “Towards a fully inclusive environment for disabled people in STEMM” and this podcast features an interview with one of its authors – the physicist Francesca Doddato. Based at Lancaster University, Doddato tells Physics World’s Michael Banks about the challenges facing scientists with disabilities – and calls for decision makers to engage with the issues and to remove barriers.

Hannah Earley, a mathematician and physicist and co-founder of Vaire Computing, dives into the revolutionary world of reversible computing. She explains how this technology could dramatically slash energy consumption in AI applications. The discussion covers the evolution from theoretical concepts to tangible hardware, including innovative prototypes currently under development. Earley also touches on how specialized logic gates, like Toffoli and Fredkin, can enhance overall computing efficiency while paving the way for a sustainable future.

Tracy Northup, a Professor at the University of Innsbruck specializing in quantum interfaces, and Peter Zoller, an Emeritus professor and renowned expert in quantum information, reflect on a century of quantum physics. They discuss Werner Heisenberg's groundbreaking legacy and the significance of Helgoland in the evolution of quantum mechanics. The conversation explores the future of quantum technology, the interplay between AI and physics, and the necessity for in-person collaboration in scientific discourse, amidst emerging innovations and ethical considerations.

In this episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast we explore the career opportunities open to physicists and engineers looking to work within healthcare – as medical physicists or clinical engineers. Physics World’s Tami Freeman is in conversation with two early-career physicists working in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). They are Rachel Allcock, a trainee clinical scientist at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, and George Bruce, a clinical scientist at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. We also hear from Chris Watt, head of communications and public affairs at IPEM, about the new IPEM careers guide. This episode was created in collaboration with IPEM, the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine. IPEM owns the journal Physics in Medicine & Biology. This episode is supported by Radformation, which is redefining automation in radiation oncology with a full suite of tools designed to streamline clinical workflows and boost efficiency. At the centre of it all is AutoContour, a powerful AI-driven autocontouring solution trusted by centres worldwide.

Richard Bond, a leading theorist at the University of Toronto, and George Efstathiou, emeritus professor at Cambridge, share their groundbreaking work on the cosmic microwave background (CMB). They discuss how CMB observations offer a glimpse into the universe's infancy and reveal insights into dark matter, one of physics' biggest puzzles. Their collaboration showcases the fusion of theoretical and experimental astrophysics, underlining the significance of technological advancements like the COBE satellite in shaping our understanding of cosmic evolution.

Bob Coecke, chief scientist at Quantinuum, shares his groundbreaking approach to teaching quantum physics through diagrams, making it accessible to everyone. Joining him is Arjan Dhawan, a mathematics student who participated in a summer course aimed at teenagers. They discuss the urgency of understanding quantum concepts as technology evolves, the surprising success of students mastering complex ideas, and the benefits of visual learning in grasping challenging topics, all designed to engage a broader audience in the quantum revolution.

Margaret Harris, a knowledgeable colleague at Physics World, discusses the recent discovery of auroras on Mars by NASA's Perseverance Rover, shedding light on planetary atmospheres. She also contemplates the ultimate fate of the universe and the future of white dwarf stars. Matin Durrani shares intriguing insights about Werner Heisenberg's pivotal retreat to Helgoland in 1925, where he developed crucial quantum mechanics principles. The conversation rounds off with innovative uses of neutron science for authenticating antique coins, revealing fascinating intersections between physics and history.

James Wootton, Chief Scientific Officer at Moth Quantum, shares his insights on merging quantum computing with creative fields. He discusses how artists, musicians, and game designers can leverage specialized quantum software to revolutionize their work. Wootton emphasizes the unique advantages of quantum systems in procedural generation for games, enhancing creativity through probabilities. He also highlights the vital role of storytelling and public engagement in making quantum concepts accessible, demonstrating the fusion of technology and artistry.

Nadya Mason, Dean of the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, dives into how molecular engineering is revolutionizing quantum computing, sustainability, and biomedical technologies. Jeffrey Spangenberger, leader of the Materials Recycling Group at Argonne National Laboratory, discusses the intricacies of battery recycling and the innovative methods being developed for a more sustainable future. Together, they explore the potential of cutting-edge science to create a circular economy and advance technologies that address global challenges.

This episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast features the Nobel laureate Ferenc Krausz. He is director of the Max-Planck Institute of Quantum Optics and a professor at LMU Munich, both in Germany, and CEO and scientific director of the Center for Molecular Fingerprinting in Budapest, Hungary. In a conversation with Physics World’s Tami Freeman Krausz talks about his research into using ultrashort-pulsed laser technology to develop a diagnostic tool for early disease detection. He also discusses his collaboration with Semmelweis University to establish the John von Neumann Institute for Data Science, and describes the Science4People initiative, a charity that he and his colleagues founded to provide education for children who have been displaced by the war in Ukraine. On 13–14 May, The Economist is hosting Commercialising Quantum Global 2025 in London. The event is supported by the Institute of Physics – which brings you Physics World. Participants will join global leaders from business, science and policy for two days of real-world insights into quantum’s future. In London you will explore breakthroughs in quantum computing, communications and sensing, and discover how these technologies are shaping industries, economies and global regulation. Register now and use code QUANTUM20 to receive 20% off. This offer ends on 4 May.