Hassi Norlén of IBM

Qiskit is an open source quantum computing framework that enables the IBM Q community to experiment with algorithms and quantum computing for themselves. 

In this workshop we will walk through some basic quantum programs on the IBM Q Experience platform and create these same programs in Python using Qiskit. We will run the programs both on simulators and on actual IBM Q lab hardware.

As part of the workshop we will discuss classical bits vs. qubits and use IBM Qx to explore how qubits can be represented by a state vector, Bloch sphere and density matrix. We will also take a closer look at some foundational quantum gates.

Attendees are welcome to follow along on their own devices; either in the IBM Q Experience Notebook environment or on the participants laptops. To actively participate in the workshop the participants must:

• Set up an account with IBM Q Experience (to run the composer, and to get Qiskit API access token). For information, see: https://quantum-computing.ibm.com/
• Bring a laptop, tablet, or phone with internet connection for accessing IBM Q Experience (Free WiFi available from Arlington Library).
• Have access to Qiskit:
  • On IBM Q Experience (beta): No installation needed. Code examples can be run in the IBM Q Experience Notebook environment.
  • On your own laptop: Install Python + Qiskit to run the Python examples locally and on the IBM hardware. For installation instructions, see: https://qiskit.org/documentation/install.html

Biography:

Hassi Norlen is an IBM Q Ambassador. In addition to this role, he is lead Information Developer with IBM Watson IoT Solutions, working on a broad collection of IBM Internet of Things product offerings. Hassi has worked in the field of technical journalism, information development, and science teaching for close to 25 years, lives in DC and generally works out of the IBM Herndon, VA lab. 

He holds an M.Sc. in physics from Uppsala University, Ångström Laboratory, Sweden where he did his thesis work on fractal dimensions of thin solid films. He also has a degree in science journalism from the same university and a certificate in Quantum Information Science from MITx.

Dr. Elena Yndurian of IBM

Biography:

Elena Yndurain is a seasoned executive experienced in launching high-tech products into the market.  She currently works at IBM Q’s team advising companies on defining their strategy to Quantum Computing, linking research to business in the financial services industry.
 
Elena holds a PhD in EECS from Universidad Carlos III, Spain, a double major in mathematics and computer science from University of Michigan, an executive MBA from IE Business School and a certificate in Quantum Computing from MIT.