The students who want to shape the future of quantum technology
Why choose to study for a master's degree in quantum technology? KTH students Astrid Bergman and Axel Segendorf are driven by curiosity and a genuine interest in mathematics – and a desire to help shape the technology of tomorrow.
Axel Segendorf has just started his master’s degree. What he finds interesting about quantum physics is what it says about the universe and the world we live in, and how it changes your perspective on everything you see around you every day. “Using that insight to create solutions feels really good,” Segendorf says.
His fellow student Astrid Bergman, who is in her second year, was attracted by the opportunities to work in both academia and industry.
“Quantum technology is an innovative and cutting-edge subject, but at the same time we are developing real applications right now,” Bergman says.
“You can really pick and choose”
Quantum technology is one of the tracks that master's students in engineering physics can choose. It aims to promote theoretical and practical knowledge with a focus on understanding the technical applications of quantum physics. After completing their studies, students can work in the fast-growing sector of quantum technology start-ups or move into the established high-tech sector. The programme also provides a good foundation for research.
Bergman says that there are two compulsory courses at the start of the track: one is theoretically advanced quantum mechanics, which is the foundation that you need to understand.
“This is followed by a course called quantum technology, which is a pure laboratory course,” she says. So right from the start, you get both specialisations.”
After the initial compulsory courses, students have a opportunity to shape their own education. They can choose to go in a more theoretical or practical direction.
“It's fun to have so much freedom of choice with the courses, you can really pick and choose,” Segendorf says. “Personally, I want to read more about machine learning because I think it can be useful.”
Trusting mathematics
Quantum mechanics can be described as a way of explaining the world at the atomic level. It’s not the easiest subject, as it often runs counter to our everyday experience and can be difficult to imagine.
“Even for us, quantum mechanics is very counterintuitive,” Bergman says. “But I don’t know if it’s really that difficult. You just have to trust the mathematics and the results you get. I think it’s a fun challenge if you’re interested in mathematics.”
Both she and Segendorf appreciate the programme's mix of theory and practice, as well as the proximity to the researchers and their work. They also like having classmates from all over the world.
‘There are a lot of international exchange students on this master’s programme, and they're all really nice. Most of them are from different parts of Europe,” Segendorf says.
What is your dream job after graduation?
“I haven’t planned that far ahead, but I would like to do a PhD after this and then work with something in quantum technology,” Bergman says.
Segendorff says: “The dream would be to first do a PhD, do some research and then find something that I really enjoy, that is good and useful. It's not unusual for small groups of researchers to get together and start companies in the very field where they are world leaders. For me, the ideal path in the long term would be to combine entrepreneurship with continued research."
Jon Lindhe ( jlindhe@kth.se )