Westat Experts Explore the Future of Quantum Computing

Westat experts joined other leading researchers, government innovators, industry partners, and students at Unlocking the Potential of Quantum Computing: A Symposium for the Quantum-Curious, hosted by the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) in December. The event featured keynote speaker Norbert M. Linke, PhD, Associate Professor of Physics and director of the National Quantum Laboratory (QLab) at the University of Maryland, who set the stage for a dynamic discussion on how quantum technologies are rapidly reshaping science and industry.

Scott Royal, PhD, Westat President and CEO, expressed appreciation to USG for organizing the symposium: “This gathering offered a rare opportunity for experts across sectors to exchange ideas and envision the future of this emerging technology. I look forward to continued dialogue on how quantum computing will drive research and growth in Maryland and beyond.”

Maryland’s Leadership in Quantum Computing

Maryland is rapidly becoming a hub for quantum innovation. Earlier this year, the state launched its Capital of Quantum initiative, positioning itself as a national leader in quantum information science and technology.

Kimberly Mentzell, MS, director of Cybersecurity and Aerospace and lead for Emerging Technologies at the Maryland Department of Commerce, welcomed event attendees and emphasized the role of collaboration, workforce development, and innovation in fueling economic growth. She described quantum computing as a “lighthouse industry” for Maryland—one that offers powerful solutions for data challenges and opens new opportunities for research and business.

Westat’s Perspective on Quantum Applications

Westat experts Eric Pan, MD, MSc, and John Riddles, MS, shared insights on how quantum computing could revolutionize fields such as health and cybersecurity. They highlighted its potential in preventive medicine, drug development, and data security, as well as its ability to tackle complex problems involving massive datasets.

“Quantum computing excels at solving ‘hard’ problems, those with intricate interdependencies and high complexity,” noted Pan. He and Riddles discussed Westat’s efforts in leveraging quantum techniques for healthcare research, including natural language processing (NLP), synthetic data analysis, and large-scale data modeling.

The symposium concluded with an expert panel discussion featuring Pan and moderated by Fatih Selekler. The panelists explored future applications of quantum computing, fielded audience questions, and highlighted opportunities for partnerships to advance this transformative technology.

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