Peter Johnson, Ph.D.

Peter Johnson received his Ph.D. in physics from Dartmouth College in 2016 specializing in quantum information science under the supervision of Lorenza Viola. From 2016-2018 he did postdoctoral work in quantum algorithms with the Aspuru-Guzik group in the Department of Chemical and Chemical Biology at Harvard University. He then co-founded Zapata Computing along with other researchers from the Aspuru-Guzik group and currently works there as lead research scientist developing quantum algorithms and software.

Question & Answer

Why have you chosen a career in quantum?

Came for the physics, stayed for the quantum.

What is a quantum problem you dream of solving?

In the same way that use of electricity precipitated the understanding of electromagnetism, I dream that computing with quantum devices will lead us to “really” understand the quantum.

What are a few of your favorite things?

Home-cooked meals with lots of vegetables, making music with friends, and riddles.

What’s your spirit animal (pokemon)?

Pidgeotto

What’s your superpower?

Making time vanish while engaging in conversation.

If you could meet anyone, who would it be and why?

I would love to share a meal with a great-great-great grandparent and one of my great-great-great grandchildren to learn what things change and what things stay the same.