Coworking with Pranav Gokhale

Coworking is a weekly segment where we spotlight Emerging Tech Brew readers who work with emerging technologies. Click here if you’d like a chance to be featured.

How would you describe your job to someone who doesn’t work in tech?

My work focuses on bridging the gap between quantum technology hardware and business applications of quantum computing. Two years ago, we were working to educate businesses, organizations, and technologists about the promise and power of Quantum Information Science (QIS). Today, we’re working with organizations like Argonne National Lab to implement quantum technology.

What’s your favorite emerging tech project you’ve worked on?

Using quantum technology to solve more humanitarian-focused problems. One example is using quantum technology to produce more sustainable fertilizer—and doing so more efficiently. Fertilizer production emits an enormous amount of greenhouse gas, and it also takes a lot of time and money to do so. Quantum technology can be used to solve certain molecular and chemical processes that will ultimately positively impact our daily lives.

What emerging tech are you most optimistic about?

Merging quantum computers with quantum sensors. While the two technologies exist today, they’re isolated from each other. There’s a huge opportunity ahead in connecting quantum sensing (with applications like more robust GPS) with quantum computing (using quantum physics to create new ways of computing).

What’s the best piece of tech-related media you’ve read/watched/listened to?

Kara Swisher’s podcast Sway and Axios for its coverage of the VC world and emerging tech news.

One thing we can’t guess from your LinkedIn profile?

I am a professionally-trained pizza chef. I studied in Naples, Italy, under Enzo Coccia, who is arguably the most well-known pizza chef in the world.