Women in Quantum: Meet Eda Sorani, Business Development Specialist at planqc

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

My name is Eda Sorani and I am a Business Development Specialist at planqc.

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

I studied theoretical physics and completed my master’s thesis in quantum information science with a focus on multipartite entanglement. planqc found me, and I am very grateful for this opportunity.

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

My interest in physics started when I was twelve. I received an encyclopedia as a gift and discovered Newton, Einstein and Marie Curie. From that moment on, physics became a part of my life. I later discovered the micro world through a video on entanglement, and this deepened my curiosity.

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?

I have always been a confident person, which helped me stay strong even when others doubted me. During my studies, I was sometimes seen as less knowledgeable because I was a woman.

In my work life, I had moments where ideas I shared were later presented by older men as if they were their own. I always addressed this directly and made it clear that I had already mentioned the idea. I also speak up when I see other women facing similar situations. Confidence and clear communication have helped me a lot.

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

One highlight was completing my master’s thesis on entanglement between three parties and how they influence each other. I learned a great deal during that period. Another proud moment is sharing my love for physics with my nieces and nephews.

I am also proud that I was accepted into a Doctor of Business Administration programme, which I pursue privately. In my research I examine the evaluation of Quantum as a Service solutions and their role in energy management.

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

I work as a Business Development Specialist. I look for new opportunities where our algorithms team can apply their expertise to real problems in industry and academia. I also work on membership activities to represent our position in industry and policy. Inside the company I help develop processes and work across many areas. This includes proposals, conferences and events. I love my work because it connects all these fields and allows me to contribute in many ways.

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

The core of our company is the hardware. On top of that comes the software and the applications that create real impact. But without the people around these areas, the technology would not reach the world outside the lab.

Diverse roles make sure that ideas become products, that partnerships grow, that organisations work well and that the technology reaches society. Quantum technology needs many perspectives working together. This is what enables progress.

What do you enjoy most about working at planqc? 

I enjoy talking with colleagues about many topics, from technology to policy and from aerospace to logistics. There is no micromanagement and no strict hierarchy. Communication is direct and open. The start-up environment is dynamic and gives space for new ideas. I appreciate that I can contribute and grow.

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

I want young girls to feel encouraged early in life to ask questions and explore nature. The digital world gives us strong tools to show positive and visible images of women in science. I hope that future generations will see women in these fields as a normal and inspiring part of society.

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

Follow what makes you happy and stay focused on your own path. Do not let stereotypes or doubts from others distract you. Trust yourself, ask questions and seek support when you need it. A career in science or technology comes from passion and dedication, and these have nothing to do with gender.

What is your favorite quote or motto?

A quote that inspires me is from Marie Curie. She said that nothing in life is to be feared but only understood. My own advice is to do things not because you must but because they fulfil you.

Is there a fun fact about you that you’d like to share?

I sing opera and have a wide vocal range from low registers to soprano. I took singing lessons for several years and once thought that if science did not work out, I would become an opera singer. Sometimes I still wonder how life would look if I had chosen music.

A really fun fact is that I once started studying philosophy, but after a few weeks I realised that I had accidentally enrolled in theological philosophy. After several lectures about God, I left the lecture hall laughing and checked the documents again. It turned out I was indeed in the wrong programme. It became the shortest study I ever had.