Events

University of Galway IOP Tyndall Lecture 2026 for Physics students

How to Grow a Quantum Computer with Dr Felix Flicker

6^th February 2026, 12 noon, Kirwan Theatre, Arts and Science Building, University of Galway, Galway,

Come join us for this public lecture that is both accessible and entertaining. 

Once upon a time, computers were the size of large rooms. We had to manufacture each of their logical components, as valves. This changed when physicists came to understand a new state of matter: the semiconductor. From that point on, we no longer had to manufacture the elementary computing components. Instead, we learnt to grow computers from crystals of silicon.

These days the race is on to build a practical /quantum/ computer. These are again the size of large rooms. What we need is silicon for the 21st century: a new state of matter, manifested as a crystal we can grow and which acts as a quantum computer.

This talk will discuss some possible candidates for these quantum crystals, including a naturally occurring mineral (Herbertsmithite) which features some (but not all) of the necessary properties.

This experience is suitable for:

• Senior physics students,
• TY students interested in physics,
• Anyone with curiosity regarding the fundamental ingredients of our universe!

Our speaker is Dr Felix Flicker, a theoretical physicist and senior lecturer at the University of Bristol. He works on the quantum underpinnings of matter, with a focus on problems in which interesting shapes and patterns play a key role. He is the author of a bestselling book, The Magick of Matter, which introduces this branch of physics to a general audience.

Contact

Liz Coleman (schools) liz.coleman@universityofgalway.ie

Patricia Scully (general enquiries) patricia.scully@universityofgalway.ie

Location: Kirwan Theatre, Arts/Science Building, University of Galway    
Time: 12.00 PM

School of Natural Sciences TY Learning Experience

The next School of Natural Sciences TY Learning Experience will take place between April 28^th and May 2^nd 2025.

Are your students interested in studying or working in Science? If so, please register an expression of interest in the next University of Galway Science TY Learning Experience in the School of Natural Sciences (SNS).

An expression of interest form is available at the following link: Expression of Interest 2025 TY Learning Experience. Expressions of Interest will close on 14^th February 2025. 

Further information is available in the following document: SNS TY Learning Experience 2025.

Click on this link for an insight into last year's SNS TY Learning Experience.

Location: Multiple locations in the School of Natural Sciences    
Time: Monday - Friday (10 am - 4 pm)