Meet the Young Quantum Social Scientists

Quantum technologies will potentially transform whole industries, create new markets, and push the boundaries of our imagination. These transformations will include new, highly secure, and fast ways of communication and powerful quantum computers that can solve problems we currently cannot solve because of the computational limits of today's supercomputers.

However, with these revolutionary technologies come new challenges for society. The Quantum Social Lab's mission is to research the societal, ethical, political, and legal challenges of tomorrow's quantum world.

To tackle these questions, we count on interdisciplinary and highly motivated teams and future generations. To accomplish this mission, we created a scholarship program, the Young Quantum Social Scientists, a collaboration between the TUM Think Tank and the QuantWorld Project. Each cohort consists of up to 20 students who can put their theoretical knowledge to use by addressing real-world problems.

Out of over 50 applications from study programs all over Munich's universities, we chose six of the brightest minds. Our first cohort of Young Quantum Social Scientists originates from six different nations, pursuing studies in various fields from Psychology, Politics, and Technology to Biomedical Engineering and Medical Physics!

We are pleased to introduce our incredibly talented first cohort of Young Quantum Social Scientists.

Alexander Orlov

Alexander Orlov is a double degree student of Quantum Science and Technology (M.Sc. at TUM/LMU) and Political Science (B.Sc. at TUM). He is particularly interested in translating cutting-edge scientific findings into actionable and socially beneficial insights.

Why did you become a YQSS?

Quantum Technologies have the potential to have a profound impact on our society. I joined the YQSS program to learn how we can initiate responsible quantum innovation and ensure a globally positive impact of quantum tech. Plus, the societal perspective is a super valuable add-on to the technical point of view from my university studies.

Favorite part of being a YQSS

I really enjoy working together with my fellow YQSS. We come from different study backgrounds, but we share the fascination for quantum tech and the commitment to make a difference.

Something interesting or valuable you have learned so far

We have been involved in several events already, with partners from business, politics and research. It is really interesting how differently these groups think about and approach quantum technologies.

Eden Castaneira Rios

Eden Castaneira Rios has studied Actuarial Science and is now pursuing a master’s degree in Politics and Technology. He is interdisciplinary and implementation driven and has deep experience and interest in pairing up society, politics, business and technology.

Why did you become a YQSS?

I became a YQSS because I am passionate about showcasing and driving innovative developments that make use of quantum science as enablers of the greater good. I am interested in building useful interdisciplinary frameworks and addressing societal questions to enable the development of responsible, efficient, and implementable quantum technologies.

Favorite part of being a YQSS

The program has such a great and talented team, the work is fun, challenging but also useful!

Something interesting or valuable you have learned so far

Quantum technologies are as unstable as life gets, so we should not be scared about it. We are already living under its rules.

Ekin Arslan

Ekin Arslan is a Master's student in psychology focused on learning sciences. He is passionate about understanding the human mind and values teamwork and communication. His interests span psychology, technology, and politics, aiming to enhance organizational achievement and explore the impact of psychology on quantum technologies and policies.

Why did you become a YQSS?

I became a YQSS to explore other research areas rather than psychology, but at the same time use my knowledge to a field unknown.

Favorite part of being a YQSS

My favorite part of working at YQSS is being part of such an incredible team; the friendliness, support, and shared passion for our work make every day both enjoyable and fulfilling.

Something interesting or valuable you have learned so far

Working at YQSS has significantly enhanced my understanding of quantum policies and their transformative impact on technology and society. This experience has also provided valuable insights into the psychological effects of these advancements, highlighting how they can redefine social structures, especially broadening my views on how to look at the world as a psychologist.

Jerry Miller

Hailing from Canada, Jerry Miller is a Master of Politics and Technology student at the Technical University of Munich, specializing in Data & Society. He is fascinated by all things technology and how innovation can reshape political landscapes.

Why did you become a YQSS?

I joined the YQSS to explore the profound societal and ethical implications of second generation (and beyond!) quantum technologies. I aim to contribute to informed policy-making decisions and help shape public understanding of quantum technologies.

Favorite part of being a YQSS

The best part of joining the Young Quantum Social Scientists is the team: I have an incredible time learning from my fellow students and I always feel supported by the lab's leadership in continuing my learning journey.

Something interesting or valuable you have learned so far

There are no easy answers in the quantum world.

Nuria Quesada Perez

Nuria Quesada Perez is currently studying Biomedical Engineering and Medical Physics at the TUM. She has always been passionate about research in the medical field but she also enjoys learning about completely unrelated study areas. She is an active and curious person, always looking forward to getting to know new people and hobbies.

Why did you become a YQSS?

Quantum mechanics has always been a background topic throughout my studies, but I have never been actually involved in its world.  Moreover, I have never had the opportunity to participate in anything related to political sciences. Being a YQSS has brought me the opportunity to combine these two interesting fields and be part of an interdisciplinary project in which people with different backgrounds help me extend my knowledge while having a joyful experience.

Favorite part of being a YQSS

I really enjoy spending time with the team and we are offered a broad range of opportunities to take part in events and seminars that I wouldn't be aware of if I wasn't a YQSS.

Something interesting or valuable you have learned so far

Basics of Quantum Technology, the impact that Quantum technologies are having nowadays and the consequent technological evolution that is needed, how to coordinate different teams within the same project, etc.

Rowan Crawford

Rowan Crawford is a Political Science student at the Technical University of Munich. He works as a student research assistant at the TUM School of Governance and the TUM School of Management. He is particularly interested in the development and governance of emerging technologies and economic and global justice.

Why did you become a YQSS?

I joined the YQSS to work at the intersection of emerging technologies and governance. I am fascinated by quantum technologies and believe their development has massive transformative implications for science, economy, and society. As a member of the YQSS, I can research this interdisciplinary and cutting-edge field as it unfolds "in real-time."

Favorite part of being a YQSS

My favorite part of being a YQSS is working with and observing some of the brightest minds in quantum technology, economy, and social sciences. I am grateful to be a part of such an impressive research network.

Something interesting or valuable you have learned so far

During my time as a YQSS, I have been able to improve my stakeholder management skills, especially in a research context.

Are you curious to become a Young Quantum Social Scientist yourself?

Stay tuned as our new application phase for the scholarship program is starting soon!