NIST scientist Tasshi Dennis, who initially doubted the practical applications of quantum physics, is now leading efforts to build the next generation of quantum computers and networks. His journey began with an interest in optics and lasers in college, which he saw as a gateway to nanofabrication. After earning his Ph.D., Dennis joined NIST and worked on various projects, including wavelength standards and biomedical imaging. However, it wasn’t until 2019 when NIST launched a project to demonstrate a quantum network that he became fully engaged in quantum research.
Dennis now serves as the project leader for developing the technology to network superconducting quantum computers, a crucial step towards large-scale quantum computing. While acknowledging that the technology is still decades away from widespread use, Dennis is excited about the challenge and the opportunity to train the next generation of scientists. His experience demonstrates that sometimes the most promising opportunities lie in the places we least expect.
Keywords: superconducting, quantum, nanofabrication
