School of Physics hosts Diversity in Quantum Event
Posted on: 01 March 2023
The School of Physics joined forces with SandboxAQ, a US based quantum technology company, to celebrate and promote diversity in the rapidly growing field of quantum science and technology.
Diversity will be a central feature of Trinity’s drive to support the growth a national quantum eco-system. Together with leading researchers in the national and international quantum field, the two-day programme on February 16th and 17th, showcased the quantum sectors recent activity in supporting diversity throughout education and research. Attendance included multi-national companies, SMEs and start-ups in the quantum technology space. Academics, researchers and students from across Ireland. Science Foundation Irelands’ Director General Prof. Philip Nolan was also in attendance.
Winners of the Trinity Microsoft Ireland Female Scholarship in Quantum Science and Technology pictured with Kieran McCorry (National Technology Officer, Microsoft Ireland) Anne Sheehan (General Manager, Microsoft Ireland) and Prof John Goold (School of Physics, CRANN and AMBER).
Opened by Prof. John Goold (School of Physics, CRANN and AMBER) and Dr Marianna Bonanome, Head of Education and Outreach (Sandbox AQ), the opening event kicked off with a fireside chat with Anne Sheehan, General Manager at Microsoft Ireland. Dr Michael Dascal, Co-Founder of DiviQ, also shared his experiences in participating and promoting a more diverse community through his work at DiviQ.
Led by Prof Felix Binder (School of Physics, CRANN and AMBER), the event also included a panel of guests who spoke about ways to promote diversity in research and industry. Special thanks to Dr Nadia Carlsten (Sandbox AQ), Dr Akinlolu Akande, (ATU), Carmen Recio Valcarce (Moody’s Analytics) and Prof. Stefano Sanvito (Trinity College Dublin, AMBER) for sharing their experiences and advice.
Day two included a programme of student events, including one-to-one sessions with industry representatives, talks and a special masterclass in quantum theory and computing with Dr Marianna Bonanome, Head of Education and Outreach (Sandbox AQ).
Dr Marianna Bonanome (Head of Education Outreach, SandboxAQ) speaking at the launch of the Diversity in Quantum event
Speaking on the importance of the event, Dr. Marianna Bonanome, said: “I feel very strongly that we have a responsibility to the next generation to do better when it comes to addressing inequities. It is up to us, as women and scientists, to create inclusive and safe work environments, provide more opportunities for underrepresented communities in STEM to grow personally and professionally, to remove barriers to success, and to build a solid and supportive community while doing so.”
“Tonight’s Diversity in Quantum event in Trinity College Dublin, acknowledges and celebrates diversity within the quantum sector. It provides a key opportunity for us to hear from our colleagues and learn from their experiences,” said Anne Sheehan, General Manager of Microsoft Ireland.
“Diversity allows for greater inclusion in the design and development of a product or idea, which is key for success in any company. Microsoft Ireland is delighted to support initiatives such as the joint Trinity Microsoft Ireland Female Scholarship in Quantum Science and Technology as it has helped to significantly increase the number of female participants. Increasing diversity in STEM education will help to drive innovation in technology and secure Ireland's ambition of becoming a digital leader in Europe."