Mary Catherine L
- Research Program Mentor
MEng at Princeton University
Expertise
Quantum physics, quantum computing, podcasting, optics, lasers, photonics, quantum information, presentations, podcasts, drawing, gender studies, acting
Bio
Hi! My name is Mary Catherine, and I am a quantum physicist and podcast host based in Los Angeles. I earned my undergraduate degree in Physics and my master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Princeton University (go Tigers!). I am originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana (also, go Tigers!). Outside of quantum physics, I love to act, draw, animate, and have philosophical conversations about life. I also host a podcast called Quantum Moment, aimed at engaging and inspiring curious minds through heartfelt conversations around the arts and sciences. I have been conducting quantum physics research since I was fifteen. In high school, I competed at international and national science fairs, earning top honors for my quantum physics and optics research, including the Yale Science & Engineering Award, 1st place at the Louisiana JSHS, three special awards at ISEF, 4th place in Physics at ISEF, and a bronze medal at ISWEEEP. I have also been published twice for my research. Beyond physics, I am deeply passionate about storytelling and communication. I host a podcast called Quantum Moment, where I bring together science and the arts through thoughtful, heartfelt conversations for curious minds. I work from a lot of love, passion, and excitement for learning the arts and sciences. I look forward to meeting you all!Project ideas
Schrodinger's Cat, in Practice: Learn how to Generate a Superposition State!
In this project, I will guide you on how to understand a superposition state in quantum mechanics, a fundamental step in understanding the field. You will learn about bra-ket notation, probability distributions, and what it really means to collapse a wave function. This will be a fun, exciting way for you to engage with a fundamental property of quantum particles!
A History of Women in Quantum Physics (or other fields as well!)
So many women's stories exist in the field of quantum physics, but few are told. In fact, the early history of the field was known as Knabenphysik (boys' physics), given that its early creation is often credited with men in their 20s in the 1920s. In this project, you will work to tell the story of the women who are behind the foundation of quantum mechanics. This project will guide you towards understanding not only the history of quantum mechanics, but also touch on women's history. This is a great project for those passionate about gender representation in STEM.
Podcast and Content Creation Idea!
This project will be a fun way for you to learn how to communicate complex ideas effectively to a broad audience. You will pick a topic that fascinates you and we will work together to build your platform, either on podcast, social media, YouTube, etc. This project will be a great way for you to learn the fundamentals of communication! Who knows who it will attract and inspire.
Learn How to Code a Quantum Computer Using Qiskit!
On this project, you will learn the fundamentals of quantum computing by coding in Qiskit (Python). You will understand the basics of superconducting qubits, one of the leading qubits in the field. You will also explore Python, a fundamental coding platform used throughout the sciences. This project is sure to excite you!