The BITS Pilani, K K Birla Goa Campus recently hosted the Susegad Symposium on Quantum Dynamics and Thermalization (SSQDT), a high-level scientific gathering focused on the rapidly evolving field of quantum technologies from 23rd to 25th February 2026. Organized by the Department of Physics, the symposium on the theme of ‘Bridging the Gap: An Industry-Academia Interface in Quantum Science’ served as a critical platform for bridging the gap between theoretical academic research and industrial application.
Prof. Indrakshi Raychowdhury and Prof. Aabhaas Vineet Mallik from the Department of Physics, BITS Pilani, K K Birla Goa Campus were the Convenor and Co-Convenor respectively.
Following the success of previous iterations (such as the 2024 Symposium on Physics with Quantum Technology), SSQDT 2026 brought together leading physicists, industry pioneers, and early-career researchers to explore the frontiers of quantum many-body systems and real-time dynamics.
Key Themes & Discussion Areas
The symposium featured intensive technical sessions and deep dives into:
- Quantum Simulation and Dynamics:Exploring how quantum systems evolve and reach thermalization.
- Quantum Chaos and Complexity:Investigating the intricate patterns within many-body systems.
- Lattice Gauge Theories:Discussing foundational theoretical frameworks in the era of quantum computing.
- Industrial Integration:Special sessions focused on the "NISQ" (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) era and how current technology is transitioning from labs to market-ready solutions.
Distinguished Speakers & Participants
The event featured a stellar lineup of experts from premier Indian and international institutions, including:
- Academic Leaders: Experts including Dr. Arnab Sen from Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (Kolkata), Dr. Sthitadhi Roy and Dr. Subhro Bhattacharjee from International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (Bengaluru), Dr. Sayan Choudhury and Dr. Abhishodh Prakash from Harish-Chandra Research Institute (Allahabad), and various experts from IITs (Madras, Gandhinagar).
- Industry Pioneers:Significant representation from IBM Quantum, including Ritajit Majumdar, Sheshashayee Raghunathan, and Voica Ana-Maria Radescu, who provided insights into the commercial and computational future of quantum hardware.
Impact and Significance
SSQDT 2026 highlighted the growing prominence of the Centre for Research in Quantum Information and Technology (CRQIT) at BITS Pilani. By facilitating direct dialogue between students and industry giants like IBM, the symposium has:
- Strengthened the National Quantum Missionroadmap by fostering local collaborations.
- Provided a platform for early-career Indian physiciststo present state-of-the-art research.
- Solidified Goa’s position as a hub for high-level scientific discourse through its unique "Susegad" (relaxed yet productive) approach to academic exchange.
Conclusion
The symposium concluded with a call for more interdisciplinary research, emphasizing that the next leap in fundamental science will depend on the synergy between classical physics and quantum information science. Participants left with not only new theoretical insights but also practical connections intended to drive the next generation of quantum innovation in India.
