SRM University-AP successfully hosted its 25th University Distinguished Lecture, featuring eminent scientist Dr Pat Gumann, Research Staff at IBM Research, specialising in Quantum System Integration and Cryogenics.

Dr Gumann is a distinguished academic and researcher holding a PhD in Experimental Physics from Darmstadt University of Technology, Germany, and has worked with premier institutions worldwide, including Leiden University, the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Rutgers University, the University of Waterloo, and Harvard University. At IBM, he leads efforts in quantum system integration and cryogenics.

Addressing the audience, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ch Satish Kumar stated, “Quantum technology is no longer a distant concept; it is rapidly becoming a reality. Our goal is to create an ecosystem where students and researchers can actively contribute to this transformation.”

He further added, “Interactions with global experts like Dr Pat Gumann help demystify complex technologies and inspire our academic community to explore new frontiers.”

Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Professor and Dean – Research, “This is truly a landmark moment for us as we host the 25th University Distinguished Lecture. I sincerely thank all the participants, faculty members, and students for being part of this special gathering. This lecture is particularly significant as it features our esteemed colleague and friend, Dr. Pat Gumann, who has been with us over the past two weeks and brings with him vast global experience.”

“Through this series, we aim to bring students and faculty closer to emerging and future domains by learning directly from leading experts.”

Delivering the lecture, Dr Gumann provided in-depth insights into the rapidly evolving field of quantum computing, focusing on superconducting qubits, system scalability, and real-world applications. He remarked, “We are still at the beginning of the quantum computing journey. While significant progress has been made, the real breakthroughs will come as we learn how to scale these systems efficiently.”

Highlighting the practical implications of quantum technologies, he noted, “Quantum computers will not replace classical systems; they will work alongside them, solving specific problems that are otherwise computationally impossible.”

Encouraging students to explore opportunities in this domain, he said, “This is the right time for young researchers to get involved. Whether in hardware, software, or system design, there is immense scope to contribute to the future of quantum technologies.”

He emphasised that quantum computing represents an evolution rather than a replacement of classical computing and highlighted its potential applications in cryptography, material science, pharmaceuticals, and financial modeling. The session also addressed key challenges in building scalable quantum systems, including error correction, cryogenic infrastructure, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. It is truly a collaborative frontier.”

The lecture concluded with an engaging interactive session, where students discussed research pathways and career prospects in quantum technologies. Dr Gumann expressed his enthusiasm for continued collaboration with SRM University-AP and encouraged sustained academic exchange.

The event saw active participation from deans, faculty, students and researchers across disciplines. The event reaffirmed SRM University-AP’s commitment to advancing research, fostering innovation, and building global academic partnerships in cutting-edge domains.