Matyas Kovacs is Co-Founder of Berlin-based science strategy and creative agency futurehain, paving the way for exceptional ideas in ecosystems across science, business, politics and society. He has worked with European Quantum Flagship since its inception in 2016, served as the head of strategy at the Falling Walls Foundation and as ambassador of the XPRIZE Foundation. He is an engaged member and supporter of various innovation-driven communities across the globe.

Elham Kashefi is Professor of Quantum Computing at the School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, and CNRS Director of Research at LIP6 Sorbonne University. She is a pioneer in the fields of quantum cloud computing and the transdisciplinary interaction of quantum and classical computing. Her work ranges from theoretical investigation as professor all the way to actual experimental and industrial commercialisation as Co-Founder of VeriQloud, a quantum cryptography start-up. Elham has been awarded several UK, EU and US grants and fellowships for her works in developing applications for quantum computing and communication. She is senior science team leader of the UK’s Quantum Computing and Simulation Hub and member of the executive team of the EU’s Quantum Internet Alliance.

 

Freeke Heijman is co-founder and director of ecosystem development at Quantum Delta NL, the coordinating body of the Dutch national Quantum Initiative. Freeke graduated at the TU Delft Systems Engineering department in 1999 and started her career at KPN Research. Before she worked at QuTech and the Ministry of Economic Affairs in the field of space and as head of innovation policies. As the national coordinator she has played a leading role in the launch of the European Quantum Flagship initiative under Dutch Presidency of the European Council and the development of the ecosystem of talent, companies and facilities at QuTech. She is professionally skilled in policy management, systems engineering, ICT, international relations, economic policy and people management. Her passion is to drive innovation at the crossroad of academia, business and government. Freeke is married and has three sons.