Elizabeth Iwasawa

Quantum Technology Lead Leidos

Elizabeth Iwasawa is the Quantum Technology Group Lead of the Leidos Innovation Center (LInC), the ground-breaking research and development heart of Leidos (formerly SAIC). She is driving Leidos’ quantum strategy and growing the technology portfolio and research team, focusing on key development areas in quantum communications, sensing, and computing. She is PI on DARPA’s quantum-augmented networks program, QuANET. Her other focus is fostering Leidos’ quantum workforce by investing internally across a wide variety of technical backgrounds to develop a unique multi-disciplinary, collaborative, and industry-applicable approach to quantum research.

Elizabeth started her physics career on a dare her senior year of college by taking a Quantum Mechanics class just before graduating with a degree in creative writing. Her newly discovered passion saw her take on a M.S. in Materials Science followed by a Ph.D. in Particle Astrophysics from Drexel University. She worked with the IceCube South Pole Neutrino Observatory and Super Cryogenic Dark Matter Search (CDMS) collaborations before turning to industry. Prior to joining Leidos, she supported sub-surface maritime autonomy research and was a member of the Quantum Technology Council at BAE Systems.

Main Conference Day Two

2:30 PM Global defence leaders panel: How is aerospace and defence leading the quantum charge?

Quantum technologies are poised to transform the defence and aerospace sectors, offering groundbreaking advancements in sensing, communication, and computing. This panel will explore how these innovations are being integrated into military and aerospace applications, enhancing capabilities and strategic advantages.

Key discussion points include:

How are quantum sensing technologies revolutionizing defense operations?
Examining applications such as enhanced navigation, precise positioning, and advanced threat detection through quantum sensors.
What role does quantum communication play in securing military communications?
Discussing the implications of quantum key distribution (QKD) for protecting sensitive information and ensuring secure communications in defence systems.
How are quantum computing advancements influencing aerospace innovation?
Exploring the potential for quantum computing to optimize logistics, improve material science, and accelerate simulations in aerospace engineering.
What challenges do defence and aerospace sectors face in adopting quantum technologies?
Identifying barriers such as funding, technical expertise, and integration with existing systems.
How can international collaborations enhance the development of quantum technologies in defence and aerospace?
Highlighting partnerships between governments, academia, and industry that promote innovation and share best practices.
What is the future outlook for quantum technologies in enhancing national security and aerospace capabilities?
Discussing emerging trends and potential developments that could reshape the landscape of defence and aerospace.

This panel will feature experts from the defence and aerospace industries, as well as representatives from government and academia, providing valuable insights into the transformative potential of quantum technologies in these critical sectors. Join us for an engaging discussion on the future of defence and aerospace in the quantum era

3:20 PM Leidos Case Study

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Elizabeth.

Download The Latest Agenda