Description
Hybrid quantum–classical computing is entering a new phase: one powered by tighter integration between QPUs, advanced classical accelerators, and specialized interconnects.
In this special pre-recorded panel, we brought together three leaders shaping the future of the field: Yonatan Cohen (Quantum Machines), André Saraiva (Diraq), and Shane Caldwell (NVIDIA).
Together, they explore what it really takes to build high-performance quantum–classical systems. The panelists discuss fundamental challenges such as real-time feedback, high-speed control, and scaling across multiple hardware layers, while also highlighting emerging solutions like DGX Quantum and NVQLink, designed to enable ultra-low-latency communication between QPUs and classical GPUs.
With perspectives ranging from spin-qubit QPUs to orchestration systems and GPU-based supercomputing, the panel discusses how deeper integration across the stack will accelerate the path to useful quantum computing. The conversation reveals where the industry is heading next, what breakthroughs are needed, and how companies like Diraq, NVIDIA, and Quantum Machines are collaborating to enable quantum computing to become useful sooner.
We hosted a live Q&A where the speakers answered questions and expanded on the ideas from this session.
Speaker
Shane Caldwell
NVIDIA
Shane Caldwell is senior product management driving quantum computing initiatives at NVIDIA. With a foundation built on an experimental physics Ph.D. from the University of Chicago and nearly a decade at Rigetti Computing, where he architected both quantum hardware and the complex software systems for its calibration and deployment, Shane now focuses on the intersection of quantum and classical computing. His work at NVIDIA centers on advancing the hybrid quantum-classical platform through initiatives like CUDA-Q and NVQLink, enabling real-time quantum error correction (QEC), GPU-accelerated simulation, and seamless integration of QPUs with powerful classical hardware, driving the transition to scalable quantum computing.
André Saraiva
Head of Theory
André Saraiva is Head of Theory at Diraq, leading the design and modelling of large-scale silicon-based quantum processors. A solidstate physicist specialising in spin qubits, quantum dots, and scalable semiconductor architectures, Saraiva is focused on advancing the theoretical foundations required to scale quantum systems to the millions, and ultimately billions, of qubits needed for practical commercial applications. Before joining Diraq in 2022, he held senior research roles at UNSW Sydney and Silicon Quantum Computing, and served as Professor of Physics at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. He has also held postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and UFRJ. Saraiva holds a PhD in Physics from UFRJ and has authored numerous scientific publications that have shaped the development of silicon-based quantum computing.
Yonatan Cohen
CTO
Yonatan Cohen is the Co-Founder and CTO of Quantum Machines. An acclaimed entrepreneur and physicist, specializing in quantum electronics and advanced microfabrication. He previously co-founded and served as Managing Director of the Weizmann Institute of Science’s flagship entrepreneurship program, where he facilitated the translation of deep-tech breakthroughs into commercial ventures. Yonatan completed his MSc and PhD in Prof. Moty Heiblum’s laboratory at the Weizmann Institute, focusing on quantum electronics, superconducting-semiconducting devices, and microfabrication. His research has been featured in leading peer-reviewed journals. Yonatan holds a BSc in Physics and Mathematics from the University of Washington and received the Ruth and Prof. Abraham (Edek) Blaugrund Prize for Academic Excellence in 2018.
Host
Katia Moskvitch
Communications director
Katia Moskvitch is the Director of Communications at Quantum Machines, where she leads the company’s global communications strategy, brand narrative, and external relations across media, analysts, partners, and the broader quantum technology ecosystem. She oversees strategic content development, thought leadership initiatives, and the company’s public positioning.
Katia is an award-winning science and technology journalist with more than 15 years of experience writing for Nature, BBC Future, New Scientist, Wired, Scientific American, and Quanta Magazine. Before joining Quantum Machines, she led editorial strategy and communications for several deep-tech and advanced research organizations, translating complex scientific innovation into clear narratives for global audiences.
Her journalistic work has spanned quantum computing, physics, space science, AI, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, and her reporting has been featured in leading publications worldwide. Katia is also the author of Neutron Stars: The Quest to Understand the Zombies of the Cosmos, a nonfiction book blending science, history, and human relationships.
