Machine Learning, Quantum Computers and More

Upper School science students recently participated in two informative remote class sessions with Dr. Farah Fahim, deputy head of quantum science at the Fermi Quantum Institute and Parker’s 2020–21 Robert A. Pritzker Visiting Scientist•Inventor•Engineer in Residence.

 

For more than 15 years, Fahim has been developing low-noise, high-speed readout and control electronics for detectors that operate in harsh environments for a wide range of applications. She is interested in translating the expertise in designing ultra-low-power, compact readout electronics for large, high-energy physics detectors to develop modular, scalable, cryogenic quantum control systems.

 

While visiting with students in the Science and Fiction class, Fahim spoke about the current work in artificial intelligence and machine learning. She used the task of teaching a machine to recognize an image of a cat to help students understand the concept of machine learning and programs that can sense, reason, act and adapt. Fahim emphasized the importance of neuromorphic design, using circuits to mimic neuro-biological architectures present in the nervous system. In reflecting upon her work, she offered, “Popular science fiction becomes reality through engineering.”

 

Students in the Modern Physics and Philosophy class learned firsthand about Fahim’s quest to build a quantum computer. Despite being an engineer, not a quantum physicist, she explained that someone who doesn’t fully understand quantum phenomena can benefit from its influences. She shared more about the types of quantum computers currently in development by Google, Honeywell, Microsoft and Intel—each one attempting to exploit a completely different quantum phenomenon based on the unique materials it uses. She then spoke more about the quantum computing system that she and her Fermi team are working on, which is using a “brute force” approach to cryogenically cool electronics. Fahim commented on the importance of recognizing human intelligence, articulated the rationale beyond the use of specific functions and equations and even addressed the concept of natural bias within her work. Students and teachers posed questions at the end of each presentation.

 

Science teacher George Austin shared, “She got the students up to her level of understanding, as opposed to watering it all down. It was nice to see the students stretch and get to the professional engineer’s level, and she did a good job of helping them get there.” Senior Oscar Fardon said, “It’s hard to understand how the science and math would be applied in real life scenarios, and Dr. Fahim helped me understand that this information can be very useful in some professions and fields, rather than just taking the information, sticking it in your head and never using it again.”

 

This pair of experiences marks Dr. Fahim’s first virtual visit to Parker’s classrooms as this year’s Pritzker Scientist. We look forward to future student-focused experiences, as well as her virtual public event Wednesday, March 24 at 7 p.m. Click here to register.