Infleqtion Chief Scientist for Quantum Information, Dr. Mark Saffman, has been awarded the ninth Biennial John Stewart Bell Prize for his pioneering contributions to quantum simulation and quantum computing utilizing neutral atoms. His work, conducted at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and as director of the Wisconsin Quantum Institute, focuses on methods for quantum control and achieving high-fidelity two-qubit operations using Rydberg blockade. This achievement underpins Infleqtion’s quantum computing roadmap, driving the development of fault-tolerant quantum systems essential for attaining quantum advantage and enabling real-world applications in quantum sensing and computing.
Infleqtion’s Quantum Technology Leadership
Infleqtion is establishing itself as a leader in neutral atom-based quantum technology, demonstrated by Chief Scientist Dr. Mark Saffman receiving the John Stewart Bell Prize. This award recognizes his pioneering contributions to quantum simulation and computing, work which directly underpins Infleqtion’s roadmap for building fault-tolerant quantum systems. The company aims to achieve quantum advantage and unlock applications in quantum sensing and computing—highlighting its commitment to translating theoretical advancements into practical, real-world solutions.
Dr. Saffman’s work includes inventing methods for quantum control of neutral atoms and achieving high-fidelity two-qubit operations using Rydberg blockade. Prior to joining Infleqtion, he co-authored the first successful execution of a quantum algorithm on an atomic quantum computer. This expertise is crucial as Infleqtion builds and commercializes quantum computers, precision sensors, and quantum software for government, enterprise, and research clients—positioning the company as a partner for cutting-edge quantum capabilities.
Infleqtion’s commercial portfolio encompasses quantum computers alongside quantum RF systems, clocks, and inertial navigation solutions. The company is preparing to go public through a merger with Churchill Capital Corp X (NASDAQ: CCCX) in September 2025. This move underscores Infleqtion’s growth and ambition in the rapidly evolving quantum landscape, signaling its intent to deliver advanced quantum technology to a broader market.
Dr. Mark Saffman Receives John Stewart Bell Prize
Dr. Mark Saffman, Chief Scientist for Quantum Information at Infleqtion, was awarded the ninth Biennial John Stewart Bell Prize for Research on Fundamental Issues in Quantum Mechanics and Their Applications. The prize recognizes his pioneering contributions to quantum simulation and quantum computing utilizing neutral atoms. This acknowledgment highlights the rapid development of the field, moving from theoretical concepts to practical applications, and underscores Infleqtion’s progress toward delivering fault-tolerant quantum systems for quantum advantage.
Saffman’s work is foundational to Infleqtion’s quantum computing roadmap and includes inventing methods for quantum control of neutral atoms and achieving high-fidelity two-qubit operations using Rydberg blockade. He co-authored the first successful execution of a quantum algorithm on an atomic quantum computer before joining Infleqtion to accelerate the transition from laboratory research to engineered quantum systems. This builds on his role as the Johannes Rydberg Professor of Physics at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and director of the Wisconsin Quantum Institute.
The John Stewart Bell Prize acknowledges significant advances in areas like quantum information theory, computation, foundations, cryptography, and control. Saffman will be formally honored alongside Antoine Browaeys and Mikhail Lukin at the 11th International Conference on Quantum Information and Quantum Control (CQIQC‑XI) at the University of Toronto. This award follows his earlier recognition with the Norman F. Ramsey Prize by the American Physical Society (APS).
I am so humbled to be picked as a recipient of the John Stewart Bell Prize. This is truly one of the highlights of my career.
Dr. Mark Saffman
Advancements in Neutral Atom Quantum Computing
Infleqtion’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Mark Saffman, received the John Stewart Bell Prize for pioneering contributions to quantum simulation and computing using neutral atoms. This recognition highlights his work underpinning Infleqtion’s quantum computing roadmap, focused on delivering fault-tolerant quantum systems. Dr. Saffman has also invented methods for quantum control of neutral atoms, achieving high-fidelity two-qubit operations and co-authoring the first successful execution of a quantum algorithm on an atomic quantum computer before joining Infleqtion.
Infleqtion is a leader in neutral-atom quantum technology, building quantum computers, precision sensors, and software for various sectors. The company’s commercial portfolio includes not only quantum computers but also quantum RF systems, clocks, and inertial navigation solutions, positioning it as a key partner for governments and enterprises. They aim to advance quantum capabilities and are planning to go public through a merger with Churchill Capital Corp X (NASDAQ: CCCX) in September 2025.
Dr. Saffman’s work is reshaping the understanding of the world and unlocking commercial applications for quantum technologies. He also received the Norman F. Ramsey Prize from the American Physical Society (APS) and currently serves as the Johannes Rydberg Professor of Physics at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and director of the Wisconsin Quantum Institute. His contributions are considered critical for achieving quantum advantage and progressing the field from theoretical research to engineered systems.
Infleqtion’s Planned Merger with Churchill Capital Corp X
Infleqtion announced plans to become a public company through a merger with Churchill Capital Corp X (NASDAQ: CCCX). This move follows recognition of Infleqtion’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Mark Saffman, who was awarded the John Stewart Bell Prize for his pioneering work in quantum simulation and computing with neutral atoms. His contributions underpin Infleqtion’s roadmap for developing fault-tolerant quantum systems aimed at achieving quantum advantage and unlocking applications in sensing and computing.
Infleqtion designs and builds quantum computers, precision sensors, and quantum software for government, enterprise, and research clients. Their commercial portfolio includes quantum computers, RF systems, clocks, and inertial navigation solutions. The company aims to be the partner of choice for those seeking advanced quantum capabilities. The planned merger with Churchill X is expected to facilitate further development and commercialization of these technologies.
Details regarding the merger will be submitted to Churchill X shareholders for consideration. A registration statement will be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including proxy statements and a prospectus. Interested parties can find more information on the SEC website or by contacting Churchill Capital Corp X directly. The anticipated completion date is September 2025.
Saffman’s Contributions to Quantum Control & Fidelity
Dr. Mark Saffman received the John Stewart Bell Prize for his pioneering contributions to quantum simulation and quantum computing using neutral atoms. His work is foundational to Infleqtion’s quantum computing roadmap, aiming to deliver fault-tolerant quantum systems and unlock applications in quantum sensing and computing. Saffman also invented methods for quantum control of neutral atoms and achieved high-fidelity two-qubit operations utilizing Rydberg blockade—demonstrating practical advances beyond theoretical concepts.
Saffman’s contributions extend to co-authoring the first successful execution of a quantum algorithm on an atomic quantum computer. This achievement, coupled with his work at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and as director of the Wisconsin Quantum Institute, highlights his impact on translating laboratory research into engineered quantum systems. His methods are critical for building advanced quantum technologies, as Infleqtion focuses on delivering commercial quantum computers and precision sensors.
The significance of Saffman’s work is further underscored by his recent award of the Norman F. Ramsey Prize from the American Physical Society. Infleqtion emphasizes that his expertise is reshaping how humanity understands the world and unlocking commercial applications for quantum technology. This positions him as a key figure in advancing the field and realizing the potential of quantum systems for various industries and research areas.
Every year, this award highlights the major advances in our field, and when you examine the body of work that has been selected since 2009, you can clearly see how fast our field is developing and how quickly we’ve gone from theoretical to practical applications.
Dr. Mark Saffman
