Mariam Kiran, a quantum research scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), was recognized as a finalist for the British Council’s Study U.K. Alumni Awards 2025 in the Science and Sustainability category. Her work focuses on advancing quantum communication technologies, including projects like quantum key distribution to enhance cybersecurity and innovations in signal coexistence over fiber channels. Kiran’s research contributes to developing the quantum internet, aligning with ORNL’s broader mission to drive quantum innovation and scientific discovery.
Mariam Kiran, a quantum research scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), has been recognized as a finalist for the British Council’s Study U.K. Alumni Awards 2025 in the Science and Sustainability category. This honor highlights her significant contributions to quantum computing research.
Kiran, who joined ORNL in 2023, specializes in exploring quantum phenomena and developing technologies essential for the quantum internet. Her work includes advancements such as quantum key distribution, which enhances cybersecurity, and innovations in quantum signal coexistence over fiber channels.
Prior to her role at ORNL, Kiran was a research scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, where she led artificial intelligence initiatives in computer networking. She holds degrees from the University of Sheffield, including a doctorate in computer science.
Kiran’s achievements are further underscored by her receipt of the DOE Early Career Award and the U.K. Royal Society Award. She is also an active member of several professional societies, contributing to the field’s advancement.
ORNL continues to be at the forefront of quantum innovation, aligning with its commitment to scientific discovery and technological transformation. Kiran’s work exemplifies ORNL’s dedication to leading in quantum science, as highlighted during the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in 2025.
Mariam Kiran pursued higher education at the University of Sheffield, earning a master’s degree in advanced software engineering in 2007 and a doctorate in computer science in 2011. These foundational studies laid the groundwork for her career in quantum computing research.
Before joining Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) as a group leader for quantum communications and networking in 2023, Kiran worked at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, leading artificial intelligence efforts in computer networking. Her expertise spans wide area networks and wireless technologies, areas that have informed her current focus on quantum phenomena and the development of quantum internet technologies.
Her professional journey is marked by recognitions including the DOE Early Career Award in 2017 and the U.K. Royal Society Award in 2015. Kiran’s active membership in organizations like the Association for Computing Machinery and the IEEE Women in Engineering Society further highlights her dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration in the field of quantum computing research.
Mariam Kiran’s research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) centers on advancing quantum phenomena and technologies critical to the development of the quantum internet. Her work includes significant advancements in quantum key distribution, which enhances cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, as well as innovations in quantum signal coexistence over fiber channels. These contributions address practical challenges in implementing scalable quantum communication systems.
Kiran’s expertise extends to optimizing quantum sources and detectors, areas essential for improving the reliability and efficiency of quantum technologies. Her research aligns with ORNL’s broader mission to drive scientific discovery and technological innovation in quantum computing. By focusing on these core areas, Kiran’s work supports the progression toward real-world applications of quantum communication and computation.
ORNL’s commitment to quantum innovation is further highlighted by its participation in initiatives such as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Through projects like those led by Kiran, ORNL continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the field, ensuring that quantum technologies meet the demands of modern cybersecurity and communication needs.
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