Genya Crossman, a committed advocate for quantum computing, is leading the charge to make this complex technology more accessible and applicable in solving real-world problems. As a technical engagement lead at IBM, she oversees five dedicated quantum working groups focused on various sectors, including healthcare, life sciences, materials science, high-energy physics, optimization, and sustainability. She just recently joined us for the sixth annual IEEE Quantum Week. Held in Albuquerque from August 31 to September 5, this event made crystal clear her role as a developing hub of the quantum computing community.
Crossman’s own journey into the quantum computing space started while she was studying for her undergraduate degree in physics at McGill University. Through the direction of her thesis advisor, Professor Stéphane Willocq, she cultivated a deep understanding of condensed matter. She became well-versed in machine learning and quantum learning. This personalized learning experience has opened amazing opportunities for her bright, young career. Today, she leads and directs cross-disciplinary teams pushing the forefront of quantum technological innovation.
At IEEE Quantum Week, Crossman participated in discussions with the experts and attendees on the implications of quantum technologies. Her passionate belief in the power of the field shines through as she stresses the need for collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches.
A Lifelong Learner and Advocate
Genya Crossman’s desire to continue learning has been one of the greatest motivators and influences in her career. As a lifelong learner who is excited about helping others learn and appreciate the complexities of quantum computing, she hopes to make complex information more accessible.
“When I started learning about quantum mechanics in undergrad, there wasn’t much information out there,” – Genya Crossman
Inspired by her drive to address knowledge disparities, she joined IEEE. Her father, Antony Crossman, was an electrical and electronics engineer, and a proud IEEE life member—so she followed in his footsteps. This familial connection to the engineering community has shaped her career trajectory and long-standing commitment to advancing technology for good.
In her capacity at IBM in Germany, Crossman is a passionate advocate to researchers. She finds useful resources and experts to help answer specific or niche questions regarding the application of quantum solutions. She is passionate about the idea that broadening access to applied knowledge is key to stimulating innovation across the practice of transportation.
“I really enjoy [quantum engineering] and working with everyone because it’s such an interdisciplinary field,” – Genya Crossman
Her leadership in roundtable conversations during IEEE Quantum Week demonstrated a clear necessity for a space where radically bold ideas could be nurtured and allowed to grow.
Fostering Practical Applications
Crossman’s work is all about translating the theoretical frontier-pushing quantum research into technologies that can solve real-world pressing problems today. By spearheading five industry-specific working groups, she makes sure her teams are building solutions that matter to some of the most pressing challenges facing our industries today.
Throughout the conference, the team of Crossman and her colleagues were able to get essential feedback on their work. This consistent input aided them in finding overlap between the groups’ features.
“We got great feedback and information about identifying common features across groups.” – Genya Crossman
By taking a collaborative approach, this initiative provides deeper insight into how quantum computing can be best leveraged in real life scenarios. In her experience, she argues, audiences require tangible examples to recognize how quantum computing intersects with real-world issues.
“The audience got to hear real-life examples to understand how quantum computing applies to different scenarios and how it works.” – Genya Crossman
Crossman’s teams focus have focused on major issues such as healthcare access and environmental sustainability. They leverage quantum computing to maximize efficiency and effectiveness across these disciplines. Through the application of quantum principles to these industries, their goal is to create elegant solutions that can transform outdated processes for the better.
The Exciting Future of Quantum Computing
Even as the quantum computing industry experiences exponential growth, Crossman is bullish on the future of quantum. She considers herself lucky to have started her career in this exciting time of change. At that point, the industry was still in its infancy.
“The beginning of my career was when the quantum computing industry was just getting started. I’m really grateful for that.” – Genya Crossman
Quantum computing is notoriously difficult to explain in a simple way, but as Crossman points out, the applications are widespread across industries, sectors and services. She thinks the increasing number of professionals now entering the field provides those new entrants with valuable unique perspectives. This infusion will further enhance this fertile ground for growth and innovation.
“Quantum computing is often used to describe all quantum work,” – Genya Crossman
Crossman’s passion for her work is palpable as she explains that her job is the perfect balance of putting out fires and art. She’s quick to point out that this interdisciplinary nature is exactly what makes quantum engineering so thrilling.
“It combines problem-solving with creativity. It’s really at an exciting stage of development.” – Genya Crossman