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  • Date and time: Saturday 6 June 2026, 12.30pm to 1.30pm
  • Location: In-person only
    Law and Sociology Building, Campus East, University of York (Map)
  • Admission: Free admission, booking required

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Event details

The word ‘quantum’ is everywhere - in movies, on dishwasher tablets and even on antiperspirant cans. But are these things really using quantum physics? If not, then what is?

Postgraduate researchers Zulekha Samiullah and Hugh Barrett of the University of Bristol demystify the hype. Discover how much ‘quantum’ is around you and how these wonders weave into everyday life.

Zulekha and Hugh will introduce fundamental ideas behind quantum physics, such as entanglement and superposition. They’ll relate these concepts to emerging technologies that aim to improve our homes, cities, and planet, from the famous quantum computers to unique approaches to communications and sensing. 

Image credit:  flickr/Lars Plougmann  

About the speakers

Hugh Barrett is a third-year PhD student at the University of Bristol trying to make sources of quantum light brighter and generally more useful for practical applications. Soon-to-be-inventor of the Quantum Light Bulb (TM), Hugh is currently preparing for a research placement at the University of Tohoku, Japan. He’s also undertaken a year-long placement developing powerful lasers at the Central Laser Facility, Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). When he’s not locked in a dark lab, Hugh is President of the Bristol Optica Student Society, running outreach events that promote quantum optics. Hugh co-runs the annual quantum-themed variety show, Quantum Carousel.

Zulekha Samiullah is a fourth-year PhD student searching for long-range entanglement between spins on hexagonal lattices. She is a Widening Participation Tutor, sharing her love of maths and physics with young people across the UK. Zulekha delivers winter maths workshops funded by the Heilbronn Institute. She has co-organised Quantum in the Summer and spoken at Quantum Questions at Pint of Science. She recently completed a Department for Education policy internship through cross-government unit, Open Innovation Team. During her PhD, she founded Quantum Squash and outreach event, Quantum Carousel.

Partners

University of York

Venue details

  • Wheelchair accessible