ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In the first episode of Time to Talk Quantum [TTQ], Firgun Ventures co-founder Dr Kris Naudts is joined by physicist Professor Mete Atatüre, Head of Department at the University of Cambridge’s Cavendish Laboratory, and fellow Firgun Ventures co-founder Zeynep Korutürk, to unpack what quantum computing really is, where the technology stands today, and why it matters now.
Together, they cut through the hype to explore the practical foundations of quantum technology, from the nature of qubits and their unique properties to the real-world challenges of building, scaling and maintaining reliable quantum systems. The discussion also covers emerging applications in quantum sensing, timing, AI integration, distributed quantum computing, and the longer-term vision of a quantum internet.
Zeynep places quantum progress in a global context, examining geopolitical factors influencing innovation, the fast-moving startup landscape, and the critical role of deep academic, industrial, and policy support. She also explores investment trends, noting how finance – particularly major international banks and hedge funds – has been at the forefront, developing research capabilities and backing emerging quantum companies.
Available to watch on YouTube
Episode Themes:
- Understanding Bits & Qubits
- Superposition, Entanglement & Spooky Action
- Why More Qubits Is Not Enough
- Quantum Error Correction: The Bottleneck
- Quantum Sensing & Real-World Applications
- Integrating Quantum with AI
- Quantum Communication & the Quantum Internet
- Global Quantum Innovation & Startup Ecosystems
- Investment & the Road Ahead
This podcast is brought to you by Firgun Ventures, the first venture capital firm specialising in early growth-stage quantum scaleups. https://firgun.vc/news
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Music: NGN2 by ILĀ from their album Quantum Computer Music.
About the guests:
Professor Mete Atatüre is a physicist and Head of Department at the University of Cambridge’s prestigious Cavendish Laboratory. He joined the Cavendish in 2007 as a University Lecturer, was promoted to Readership in 2011, and to a Professorship in 2015. He is co-founder and Scientific Advisor of Nu Quantum, as well as an academic advisor to Firgun Ventures.
Zeynep Korutürk is the Founding and Managing Partner of Firgun Ventures. Previously she was Executive Director at Goldman Sachs, co-founding and leading the firm’s Tech Initiative for a decade. In this role, she worked closely with over 1,000 tech founders and served as an angel investor, board member, and advisor.
This podcast is brought to you by Firgun Ventures.
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Firgun Ventures Website
Content advisory: Time to Talk Quantum explores the intersections between quantum technology and AI, health, finance, defence and art. Some discussions may cover sensitive or technical subjects related to cybersecurity, global security, geopolitics or emerging technologies. The podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, scientific, or medical advice.
