In this episode, host Dr. Celia Merzbacher, Executive Director of QED-C, sits down with Niels Bultink, co-founder and CEO of Qblox, to explore the path from academic research to entrepreneurship in the quantum technology sector. Niels shares how Qblox was founded to address a critical need in the quantum stack: scalable, high-performance control electronics for quantum computers. The conversation walks through the realities of building a deep-tech startup, including navigating intellectual property, moving from concept to product, and securing early customers. Niels also discusses Qblox’s approach to growth, from international expansion to balancing long-term technological vision with near-term business demands. Niels offers practical advice for researchers considering entrepreneurship and provides perspective on the evolving timeline for practical, real-world quantum computing applications.

Been There, Done That is produced by Association Briefings.