How to Draw Quantum Physics
In this session, Hamza Waseem will talk about a recently proposed formalism of quantum theory, called Quantum Picturalism. Having its roots in category theory, this pictorial toolbox is based on how systems compose – which sits well with quantum interactions and entanglement. Even though the formalism looks like kindergarten drawings, it makes the study of quantum processes intuitive, can be used to teach a first course in quantum theory and is actively being used to do research in quantum foundations, quantum computing, cognition and even linguistics. This talk is intended for anyone who has studied undergraduate-level quantum mechanics.
About the speaker
Muhammad Hamza Waseem is pursuing a DPhil in Physics at the University of Oxford. His studies are funded by a Rhodes Scholarship. His research revolves around quantum structures, applied category theory, natural language processing, and magnonics. During his undergraduate studies in electrical engineering at UET Lahore, Hamza helped develop the first lab for single photon quantum physics in Pakistan. He also co-authored a book ‘Quantum Mechanics in the Single Photon Laboratory’ published by the Institute of Physics (IOP), UK.
Keen on public engagement with science, Hamza has helped organise the Lahore Science Mela, the biggest annual science festival in Pakistan. He co-founded Spectra—an online magazine aimed at training popular science writers in Pakistan. For science popularisation, Hamza has been awarded the 2021 Diana Award and was highly commended at the 2021 SEPnet Public Engagement Awards.
At Oxford, Hamza teaches mathematics and physics at Mathematical Institute and Department of Computer Science. He has also been a Lecturer in Physics at Magdalen College. He is a Research Scientist at Cambridge Quantum and Research Fellow at Global Centre for Advanced Studies, Dublin. He can be contacted at hamza.waseem@physics.ox.ac.uk
The session is free and open to all. Register by filling in the form given below to reserve your seat.
