Genya Crossman is a one-woman dynamo in the quantum computing space. She has emerged as a key translator, connecting deep quantum theories of the universe to world-altering applications. In her role as IBM’s technical engagement lead in Germany, she leads five working groups focused on developing standards to move the field forward. Crossman is a sharpened life-long learner just getting started. Mary is deeply committed to helping people learn about quantum computing and the ways it can address some of the biggest challenges our society has today.
In 2017, Crossman earned her bachelor’s in physics at McGill University in Montreal. Completing her bachelor’s degree in 2017, this accomplishment helped lay the groundwork in a field that has changed drastically since Smiths’ early studies. Her journey into quantum computing is in line with the increasing global interest in this dynamic and complex field. That’s likely why UNESCO recently declared 2025 the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, calling attention to its importance.
Crossman was raised in a home environment that fostered a love of learning and progressive thinking. She attributes her early love of science to her father, Antony Crossman, an electrical, electronics engineer—and IEEE life member. He also gave her an IEEE student membership when she entered McGill to pursue her studies. She’s convinced that gesture was the deciding factor in setting her career path.
Supporting Researchers and Innovators
In her new role at IBM, Crossman continues to boost researchers on a greater scale. She researches projects, connects them to the IBM ecosystem, and finds the right experts to address the most compelling inquiries. Her role goes beyond providing technical direction. She has been crucial in building the relationships that enable researchers from different disciplines to work together.
Crossman’s experience leading, organizing, and coordinating five quantum working groups efforts positions her well to unify agency efforts and prevent silos while promoting beneficial knowledge sharing. Reflecting on recent engagements, she stated,
“We got great feedback and information about identifying common features across groups.”
This collaborative approach not only aids individual researchers but enhances the collective understanding of quantum computing within the organization.
Her research comes at an important time as quantum computing receives more and more interest from businesses looking for the next big thing. Crossman sought out and strongly encouraged real-world application in making presentations at conferences.
“The audience got to hear real-life examples to understand how quantum computing applies to different scenarios and how it works,” she noted.
This emphasis on real-world application will go a long way in making quantum technology feel more approachable to those who don’t live and breathe the science.
A Journey Through Quantum Mechanics
Crossman’s first steps into quantum mechanics were characterized by scarce information and profusive resources. Looking back on her formative academic experiences, she reflected,
“When I started learning about quantum mechanics in undergrad, there wasn’t much information out there.”
Despite these challenges, her determination led her to create the predecessor to IBM’s first device database, setting a strong foundation for future developments in the field.
Her passion for quantum engineering is rooted in the technical challenges that it provides. What she really enjoys about it is how it combines all kinds of academic disciplines. Along the same lines, she loves to work alongside professionals of all types, claiming,
“I really enjoy quantum engineering and working with everyone because it’s such an interdisciplinary field.”
This broader understanding encourages a spirit of interdisciplinary innovation, allowing ideas to thrive from one area of research to the next.
The Future of Quantum Computing
With 2025 on the not-so-distant horizon, Crossman has found herself on the leading edge of a quickly developing industry that’s just getting started. She acknowledges the unique position she holds within this evolving landscape:
“The beginning of my career was when the quantum computing industry was just getting started. I’m really grateful for that.”
Her excitement about the future of quantum computing is palpable. She recognizes its potential to revolutionize problem-solving processes across various industries.
With advancements in programming languages like Python making quantum programming more accessible, Crossman encourages aspiring technologists to engage with this field:
“And if you know programming languages like Python, you can code a quantum computer.”
She believes that as more individuals gain access to resources and education in quantum computing, the field will continue to thrive.
