Big Appetite for Tiny Things? You Might Enjoy Quantum Physics

"Quantum" just means "super small." Quantum physics is the study of tiny particles, and has huge implications on the future of computing.

Quantum physics is the study of absurdly tiny particles and their strange behaviours. Measuring a particle isn't as easy as you might think, but quantum scientists are carefully untangling the mysteries of the subatomic universe — mysteries which help explain the fundamental nature of our reality.

Still, quantum tech isn't exactly brand new. The humble transistor came from the first wave of quantum innovations, and the tech's already at work in things like MRI scanners, electron microscopes, and atomic clocks. Just imagine what the next generation of quantum computing could do — and you could be at the forefront of the quantum revolution!

University of Waterloo: Institute for Quantum Computing

Interested in the quantum realm? The University of Waterloo is home to the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC), a leader in quantum research. Quantum may mean "small," but there's a ton of options for those who want to explore, from fundamental research in pure mathematics, to creating unbreakable digital locks with quantum key distribution.

Quantum programs at IQC can be taken as a specialization alongside a more traditional master's degree. You'll have to complete all the requirements of your program, as well as the specific Quantum Information requirements to earn the designation. Waterloo's faculties of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics have teamed up to offer interdisciplinary degrees in quantum tech. Check out this short video for more on the IQC:

How to choose a program in quantum physics

Waterloo is a Canadian leader in this space, but they're not the only ones offering programs in quantum physics. For your undergraduate degree, getting a general, well-rounded education in physics will set you up for more advanced studies at the master or even PhD levels.

When you're considering an advanced program, do a deep dive on the faculty and facilities at the schools that interest you. Seeing what different researchers are pursuing (and publishing!) can help you decide which institution or lab might be right for you.

Getting experience in physics while still in school

If you're still in high school, you can check out IQC's Quantum School for Young Students, a free, two-week summer program held at the University of Waterloo. Students will live on residence and learn all about the basics of quantum physics.

The University of Waterloo's IQC itself is home to over a dozen labs and research groups. Many of these groups will take on graduate and undergraduate students to assist in investigations and learn the ropes of a quantum physics lab.

You can follow their work through their websites and social media, and reach out to those you find interesting. Showing that you're engaged and following updates from the lab can make you an appealing candidate for a research position.

Undergraduates can also get involved in Waterloo's Undergraduate School on Experimental Quantum Information Processing, a two-week program in late spring that introduces quantum analysis techniques, and in some cases, lead to a summer research position. Learn more about this summer school program in the video below:

Your post-quantum career

Once you've paid your dues and earned your stripes, you'll be ready for graduation (or advanced studies, depending on your interests). Physicists work in all sorts of industries — not just university laboratories — and often earn $100,000 a year in Canada. Not bad!

Most researchers and scientists in quantum physics have master's degrees or doctorates, meaning you may have a lot of school work ahead of you. Fortunately, you'll be engaged in cutting-edge research, meaning the time will fly!

As a trained physicist, you may want to stay in academia, or perhaps work for a government agency near you. Here's a quick list of other physics-friendly fields:

• Telecommunications
• Manufacturing
• Hospitals and healthcare organizations
• Energy and natural resources
• Consulting

Because physics is committed to making observations and gathering difficult data, physicists often make excellent researchers and analysts in other fields as well. Whether or not you're determined to make your living on the bleeding edge of quantum tech, or you're just looking for a challenging, science-based curriculum to expand your thinking, an education in quantum physics may be for you.