Women in Quantum

In this episode of WIQC, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Rhea Chakraborty, a rising voice in quantum technology and policy, for an insightful conversation on navigating STEM as a woman, the importance of curiosity, and bridging the worlds of physics, policy, and social impact. Drawing from her experiences growing up in Toronto, pursuing STEM from a young age, and finding her path into quantum policy, Rhea Chakraborty explores the gender imbalances she observed, the mentors who helped shape her journey, and how her drive to understand both the science and its societal implications brought her to the cutting edge of Canada's quantum ecosystem.

Listeners will hear Rhea Chakraborty reflect on facing self-doubt, the power of community, the challenges of finding your voice in a structured field, and why she believes interdisciplinary collaboration is key to responsible innovation. Together, Candace Gillhoolley and Rhea Chakraborty tackle timely questions about regulation, policy, and the real-world impact of quantum technologies, all while shining a light on the unspoken contributions women bring to the space. Whether you’re curious about quantum, passionate about tech inclusion, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode promises an honest, encouraging, and thought-provoking journey.

• Ria on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/riachakraborty/
• Watch on YouTube -https://youtu.be/WOvfHwLVRjs

00:00 Early interest in STEM education

05:05 Shifting from quantum to policy

08:33 Balancing STEM and global policy

12:30 Coping with self-doubt and imposter syndrome

14:46 Meeting a future mentor

20:33 Navigating Quantum Research Challenges

24:07 Importance of early regulation

28:31 Urgency of quantum threats

31:59 Canada's quantum talent and ecosystem

35:43 Women in science and technology

38:40 Returning to a math background

41:11 Appreciation for inspirational podcasts

Welcome to this episode of WIQC, where Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Louise Davey, a quantum readiness advisor to boards and executives. In this candid conversation, Louise Davey shares her unconventional journey from leaving school at 13, to returning at 18, and ultimately finding her passion in the challenging world of physics—and later quantum technology. We explore how her early love for math and art, resilience through personal and academic obstacles, and unique family experiences shaped her confidence and leadership style. Louise Davey offers insights on the crucial role of governance and risk ownership in quantum adoption, demystifies the technology for the “quantum curious,” and shares actionable advice for business leaders and newcomers navigating this rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you’re fascinated by the science, intrigued by the leadership challenges, or wondering how to carve your own path in quantum, this episode is sure to inspire and inform.

• Louise on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisedavey/

00:00 Introduction to Women in Quantum

04:10 Parental influence and education decisions

08:20 Challenges in Early Executive Role

12:25 Parenting skills in management

14:57 Quantum computing readiness for enterprises

19:21 Quantum readiness and cryptographic security

21:00 Discussing technology hype and potential

26:21 Scaling challenges in quantum computing

28:39 Getting organizations to invest

32:07 Board responsibility for systemic risks

36:00 Ethics in AI and quantum computing

39:29 Writing a book on quantum computing

40:52 Shifting to post-quantum cryptography

In today’s episode, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Alicia Weldon, a theoretical chemist whose career weaves through quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and complex systems. Elise Weldon takes us from her childhood in rural New Jersey to her pivotal academic and industry experiences, sharing how curiosity and a flexible approach have shaped her path. Together, they explore the intersection of scientific progress and real-world impact, the cultural shift from academia to industry, and the nuance required to translate complex topics across disciplines. This conversation is about more than just technology—it’s about the values, setbacks, and determination that drive a career in cutting-edge science, and what it means to find your place in a field that’s constantly evolving.

• Alicia on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliciaraewelden/
• Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5C-sQ_e3b3U

00:00 Choosing an engineering major

04:12 Discovering quantum chemistry in class

10:09 Bridging technical and commercial worlds

11:47 Uncertainty in project timelines

16:32 Practical impact of quantum computing

18:19 Skills gained from teaching in academia

23:12 Dealing with setbacks and learning

24:05 Philosophy on work and success

27:58 Early quantum computing experiments

32:20 Researchers' mindset on quantum computing

36:40 Support and encouragement moments

39:17 Exploring veganism and tech interests

41:26 Reading habits and poetry exploration

In this episode, we’re joined by Karuna Anna, a computational chemist and machine learning scientist whose journey stretches from a small village in Kerala, India to cutting-edge research labs in the United States.

Karuna shares her early curiosity about science, the challenges and opportunities she faced navigating multicultural academic environments, and her innovative work in computational chemistry and machine learning — including designing molecular filters for recycling critical metals from electronic waste. She also opens up about self-doubt, the importance of diverse perspectives in science, and her vision for supporting women and the next generation in STEM. Whether you’re passionate about scientific discovery, leadership, or inclusion in technology, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

• Karuna's LinkedIn profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karuna-anna-sajeevan-34693887/
• Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/cdRzRuRh70w

00:00 Embracing uncertainty and speaking up

03:47 Choosing a School for Arts and Science

09:04 Facing technical challenges and learning

13:15 Diverse academic background

16:54 Benefits of computational chemistry

18:19 Using machine learning for research

23:56 Diversity's role in scientific research

27:20 Quantum chemistry meets machine learning

30:01 Balancing family and career challenges

35:06 Understanding Computational Chemistry Basics

36:30 Setting realistic research goals

40:01 Wrapping up the interview

Welcome to another episode of WIQC, where we dive into the journeys and insights of women leading the way in quantum technology.

In today’s conversation, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Rachel Noek, a technical program manager in quantum computing whose career has taken her from rural New Mexico to the forefront of cutting-edge research and engineering. Together, they explore Rachel’s early fascination with math and science, the critical role of engineering in quantum’s future, and the challenges and triumphs of managing ambitious programs while balancing family and personal growth.

Prepare for an inspiring and honest discussion about finding confidence, shaping opportunities, and the transformative potential of quantum science—both for society and for those building its foundations. Whether you’re quantum curious or already part of the field, this episode is for you.

• Rachel's LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-noek-qc/
• Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/kWiI_2d1ml8

00:00 Introduction to Women in Quantum

03:31 Internship at Sandia Labs

08:52 Understanding Science and Belief

11:56 Stakeholder communication and risk management

16:46 Overcoming imposter syndrome as manager

18:09 Building confidence through horses

21:15 Career mentorship experiences

24:22 Quantum's potential impact on healthcare

27:39 Balancing career and family

33:28 Challenges in Graduate Research

34:40 Career aspirations in quantum computing

40:38 Proving underestimated resilience

41:58 Flexible work options for families

45:33 Letting go of expectations

49:02 Interview introduction

In this episode of WIQC, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with quantum computing researcher Sahar Ben Rashid for a deep dive into the human side of the quantum future. From her childhood fascination with astronomy in Tunisia, nurtured by supportive parents and a thriving culture of scientific curiosity, to pursuing advanced research in Germany, Spain, and now Toronto, Sahar Ben Rashid shares her journey through the world of quantum science.

Together, they explore her academic path—from applied physics to quantum computing—highlighting the roles of mentorship, global collaboration, and community building along the way. Sahar Ben Rashid discusses the complexity and promise of quantum technology, demystifies the misconceptions around the field, and explains her research on modular quantum processors in accessible terms. She also offers insights for aspiring women in STEM, the importance of diverse skills in the quantum ecosystem, and the powerful motivation of contributing to something bigger than herself.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about curiosity, tenacity, and the global quest to build the computers of tomorrow.

• Sahar's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahar-ben-rached/
• Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_E6w1B3ee8

00:00 Early fascination with astronomy

05:05 Interest in Science Among Tunisian Girls

09:45 Getting into quantum computing

12:51 Studying quantum physics and computing

16:10 Networking and opportunities in quantum computing

17:13 Quantum mechanics professor's impact

22:43 Building Africa's Future Infrastructure

25:57 Challenges in Quantum Computing Development

27:47 Entering the quantum computing field

32:49 Future of Quantum Communications

36:15 Challenges with scaling quantum computers

38:34 Scaling quantum computers with modular chips

43:13 Motivation for working in quantum computing

48:26 Starting Q Tunisia Initiative

51:27 Discussing Women in Quantum Series

52:42 Connecting with industry experts on LinkedIn

In this episode, Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Harshitta Gandhi, a researcher at the intersection of quantum computing and quantum machine learning. Together, they explore Harshitta Gandhi's journey from her childhood in Delhi—where her passions lay more with theater, singing, and athletics than science—to pursuing a PhD focused on physics-based quantum machine learning at the University of Central Florida.

This conversation delves into how skills from seemingly unrelated pursuits can transfer into quantum research, the mindset shift required to thrive in the field, and the importance of imagination, resilience, and community support. Candace and Harshitta Gandhi also tackle the real-world challenges and opportunities of quantum machine learning, the evolving role of AI, the need for approachability in quantum education, and what it takes to encourage and retain more women in this cutting-edge arena.

Get ready for an episode packed with practical advice, personal stories, and a candid look at the future of quantum technology!

• Harshitta's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/harshitta-gandhi/
• Watch this interview on YouTube - https://youtu.be/14htuPc-X9w
• Harshitta's on Impact Quantum Season 3 Episode 9 -https://impactquantum.com/podcast/superpositions-and-super-careers-harshittas-quantum-leap/
• Watch Harshitta's on Impact Quantum Season 3 Episode 9 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwD0TN7EvIE

00:00 Balancing hobbies with academics

05:24 Importance of mental rigor in sports

09:23 Supportive community and mentors

12:03 Starting the PhD journey

15:17 Encouragement for women in tech

20:15 Studying time series data

22:01 Explaining quantum machine learning

26:38 Discussing different qubit types

29:01 AI assisting with information retention

32:19 Making quantum computing approachable

35:47 Balancing quantity and quality of qubits

38:28 Creating inclusive spaces in tech

43:48 Embracing a versatile skillset

46:23 Making quantum computing approachable

In today’s episode, host Candace Gillhoolley sits down with Bruna Shinohara de Mendonça, staff scientist in Quantum at CMC Microsystems, to discuss her journey from a humanities-focused upbringing in São Paulo, Brazil to the cutting edge of quantum research.

Bruna shares how curiosity and resilience guided her from initial uncertainty in science to mastering quantum mechanics and overcoming setbacks—like failing her first programming course—on her way to a multifaceted career in quantum algorithms and science communication.

Tune in as we explore the importance of representation, building confidence in male-dominated fields, and the power of making quantum accessible to diverse communities worldwide.

00:00 Intro to Women in Quantum

04:26 Pursuing a physics education

07:48 Facing doubts from others

11:59 Building self-confidence through experience

17:22 Exploring career opportunities in quantum tech

21:32 Gender differences in job applications

24:19 Quantum computing in physics research

28:52 Topological materials in quantum computing

32:51 Understanding different computing modalities

35:02 Starting science communication in 2019

38:51 Feeling uncertain about teaching skills

43:32 Discussing quantum policy challenges

46:55 Finding unexpected role models

50:17 Encouraging women to ask questions

52:20 Interview closing remarks

On this episode of Women in Quantum, we sit down with Noel Ibrahim, an independent consultant whose journey into quantum computing began with a fascination for fractals at high school parties and blossomed into a passion for physics, mathematics, and pushing boundaries as a woman in tech.

Raised in Canada by a family that blended immigrant determination with deep local roots, Noel Ibrahim shares how her early curiosity, love for literature, and supportive upbringing shaped her pursuit of science.

Together, we explore her insights on the exciting near-term possibilities for quantum computing—especially in quantum machine learning and chemistry—the realities of commercializing cutting-edge tech, and how women can carve their own paths in the field. Along the way, Noel Ibrahim offers candid reflections on overcoming underestimation, balancing creative and scientific identities, and the importance of staying true to one’s voice in innovation. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone curious about where you might fit in quantum, this conversation will inspire and inform your journey.

• Noelle's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/noelleibrahimphd/
• Watch this show on YouTube - https://youtu.be/MvM1Ju8IHtE

00:00 Discovering fractals in the early 90s

05:43 Potential for near-term commercialization

07:33 Exploring quantum machine learning potential

10:10 Quantum simulation vs. lab experiments

16:49 Evaluating ROI in Quantum Computing

20:17 Influential physics professors and mentors

24:48 Discussing gender and spatial skills

25:37 Questioning gender stereotypes in physics

30:57 Facing career challenges with independence

33:27 Communicating quantum to businesses

38:15 Recognizing and challenging false consciousness

40:27 Quantum computing workshop ideas

43:33 Enjoying technical and innovative questions

46:04 Discussing women's self-confidence

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Sahar Hejazi, a pioneering quantum physicist, founder, and global advocate for deep tech innovation. Speaker A sits down with Speaker B to explore how a passion for science and resilience guided her from segregated schools in Iran to leading research in the UK, Japan, and Sweden—breaking barriers in both academia and industry along the way.

Together, they discuss the challenges and rewards of being a woman in quantum, the importance of mentorship and collaboration, and the critical differences between academic and industry mindsets in the rapidly evolving quantum technology landscape. Speaker B shares lessons on confidence, overcoming doubt, and why community, sustainability, and inclusive leadership are vital for the future of quantum science.

If you’re curious about what it takes to thrive—and help others succeed—in the world of quantum technology, this conversation offers candid insights, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration.

• Sahar's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahar-hejazi-phd-92a42751/
• Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/xtHN7Vbhk-k

00:00 Experiences in segregated schools

04:31 Gender dynamics in education

09:24 Finding a path in engineering

12:15 Embracing global collaboration styles

14:32 Explaining quantum physics basics

19:21 Mindset shift from academia to industry

20:51 Challenges in funding EDI efforts

24:58 Explaining quantum concepts simply

27:58 Connecting through global collaboration

33:49 Funding and resource sharing in quantum

35:31 Learning when to pivot

39:12 Finding clarity through mindfulness

42:28 Defining personal success and impact

47:23 Navigating challenges as a woman

48:46 Closing thoughts on women in Quantum