Women in Quantum: Meet Alice Bellettini, Quantum Algorithms Engineer at planqc

Alice, what is your full name, current role, and your connection to planqc? 

My name is Alice and I am a quantum algorithm engineer at planqc, where I focus on hardware simulations to help the development of quantum computers.

Can you tell us briefly about your professional background and how you joined the company? 

I joined planqc after a PhD and a postdoc in the physics of cold atoms. I find the field and the applications fascinating, among them the realization of qubits and quantum simulators. I knew planqc already, coming from this community, and had bumped into people who knew about the company or talked about it. planqc seemed to be plenty of excellent and committed people, both on a professional and on a personal level, an impression which got confirmed already since the very first stages of the application process.

What inspired you to pursue a career in science, technology, or innovation? 

I simply liked it. Science, research, and abstract modelling felt always easy and natural in a way, close to my mind’s natural flow of thoughts. These disciplines are related to the idea of pushing myself beyond my limits, and always trying to learn, understand, or discover something new. This kind of way of living feels very natural to me, fun, and meaningful.

Being in a field that is still predominantly male, did you experience feeling like a minority during your studies or early career? If so, were there any particular moments, feelings, or challenges, and how did you deal with them?

It did feel like being part of a minority during some stages of my education, however never in a disadvantage-related way, only as an obvious fact. I guess, I was lucky to not experience directly any kind of gender-related treatment. However, also thanks to the advice of those around me, I have noticed a recurring pattern: on average, women tend to focus more strongly on what they do not yet know or what they perceive as lacking, whereas men appear to be more conscious of what they do know and of their achievements. I do not believe that either attitude is inherently wrong, rather, it is interesting to broaden one’s perspective by comparing one’s own approach with that of the wider community, to then reach a balanced outlook. Through this process, I have learned to be aware of my achievements and abilities while staying humble and not self-centered.

Whenever I hear about lack of respect around me, I speak it out. I believe that talking about and calmly facing reality as it is, and with a happy attitude, is in general better than hiding and isolating.

What has been a highlight or proudest moment in your career so far? 

The moment of the proclamation of my PhD in physics, after the final exam.

What is your role within the company, and how does your work contribute to planqc’s mission? 

I’m working on the modeling and simulation of the physical systems making up a quantum computer. Our goal is to realize as soon as possible a real quantum computer and to reach a milestone in the history of (quantum) physics and nature’s understanding, while opening the path of new discoveries in chemistry, material science, and sustainable transport.

Why do you think diversity of roles – from research to administration, business development, HR, and beyond – is important in quantum technology? 

It is known that in general, in any kind of community, diversity brings new perspectives and strengths, reducing the likelihood of being stuck in bottlenecks that are characteristic of the field or specific task. A diverse environment is more dynamic and stimulating and increases the lifetime value at work.

What do you enjoy most about working at planqc? 

I’m so enthusiastic about it that it’s difficult to choose a “most”. It just feels fun, happy, and open, and everyone is so respectful and committed. It pushes the joy of working at something that you like, and the willingness of bringing a change, and the connection to diverse teams makes the environment additionally intriguing and stimulating.

What is your vision for the future of women in science, technology, or quantum?

I think that things are changing. The gender balance is getting better, and women and getting more self-aware and supported, so that we can finally feel and talk about “persons” and “scientists” before thinking about their gender.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in science, technology, or innovation? 

What you think about yourself, your goal, and your understanding, and your passion, are much more important than what disrespectful people might say about you.