From aspiring to be an astronomer to dedicating a lifetime to research on photons, Serge Haroche, Honorary Professor at the Collège de France and 2012 Nobel Laureate in Physics, shared how his interest in light had led him to become a prominent quantum physicist during the 4th Shanghai Master Forum on Science on November 8.
In 2012, Haroche, together with American physicist David J. Wineland, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their “ground-breaking experimental methods that enable measuring and manipulation of individual quantum systems”.
Haroche believes that a significant portion of our knowledge about the external world comes from light. He contends that groundbreaking advances in fundamental scientific research are inseparable from the exploration of light, and some of the greatest scientific achievements are closely related to light.
He pointed out that the second quantum revolution is already underway. Human beings are now exploring the potential of quantum properties, such as superposition and entanglement, in the fields of quantum metrology, quantum communication, quantum simulation, and quantum computing.
As measurement techniques continue to advance, fundamental research can be conducted at molecular and atomic levels, and even beyond. Haroche hopes that we can use these research capabilities to explore cutting-edge technologies in the fields of electromagnetics and biology.
Regarding the timeline for the development of quantum computers, Haroche admitted, “I really don’t know.” Embracing uncertainty is a characteristic of scientific research and one of its most fascinating aspects.
Speaking from his personal experience, Haroche emphasized, “If you want to become a scientist, you must first have passion and enthusiasm.” Haroche believes that personal dedication and enthusiasm are indispensable in the innovative exploration of science. Furthermore, to come up with truly innovative ideas, one must not only collaborate with contemporaneous researchers but also seek to learn from the greatest scientific pioneers in history.
Wu Xinbao, vice chairman of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Qian Feng, vice chairman of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), attended the forum. Jin Li, president of Fudan University and academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, presided over the forum.
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Presented by Fudan University Media Center
Writer: Yu Zhehao
Editor: Wang Mengqi, Li Yijie
Designer: Ling Yiqi
