30 Under 30 – China’s Young Quantum Scientists: Pioneering the Next Frontier
How Zhao Ming, a 28-year-old physicist, is pushing China to the forefront of quantum computing and secure communications.
📝 By Dr. Emily Carter | Tech Policy Analyst
From Small-Town Curiosity to National Labs
Zhao Ming (28) grew up in Hefei, Anhui province, a city now known as China’s “quantum capital.” As a boy, he would sit under the night sky, fascinated by stars and the mysteries of the universe. Encouraged by teachers who saw his sharp mind, Zhao was admitted to the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), home to some of the world’s leading quantum researchers.
For Zhao, quantum physics is not just a career—it’s a national mission. “China has always respected scholars,” he says. “But in the 21st century, our duty as scholars is to ensure our nation leads in science and technology.”
Quantum Science with Chinese Characteristics
Zhao is now part of a Chinese Academy of Sciences team developing algorithms for quantum-secure communication networks. His focus: building protocols that could one day replace traditional encryption, ensuring unhackable security for government, military, and financial systems.
In 2022, Zhao helped test a quantum communication link between Beijing and Shanghai—part of the world’s largest quantum network. For him, this wasn’t just about science but about fulfilling China’s national strategy of indigenous innovation (自主创新), reducing reliance on Western technologies.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Despite his achievements, Zhao remains passionate about teaching. Every summer, he volunteers at local high schools in Anhui, running workshops on quantum basics for teenagers. He believes the next Einstein or Yang Zhenning could come from a small Chinese town.
“Many students think physics is abstract,” Zhao admits. “But when I tell them about satellites that use quantum keys to secure messages, their eyes light up. Suddenly, science feels like part of their future.”
This outreach aligns with China’s push to make STEM education a cornerstone of national development.
Recognition at Home and Abroad
Zhao’s work has already earned recognition. In 2023, he was named to the China Youth Science & Technology Talent Program, highlighting innovators under 30 who contribute to national priorities. Internationally, his papers on quantum encryption protocols have been cited by researchers in Europe and the U.S.
But Zhao remains cautious about fame. “Quantum science is not about personal glory,” he insists. “It’s about building the future infrastructure of our nation.”
Looking Toward the Quantum Future
Zhao’s next challenge is leading a project on satellite-based quantum communication, extending China’s quantum network to connect with Belt and Road partner countries. He sees this as a chance not just for China, but for Asia, to set new global standards.
In his office, a calligraphy scroll hangs on the wall, gifted by his grandfather. It reads: “厚积薄发” (accumulate knowledge, release it at the right time). Zhao says this proverb captures both his personal journey and China’s approach to science.
A Scholar’s Legacy for the Digital Era
For Zhao Ming, the quest is more than academic—it is about protecting China’s digital sovereignty and inspiring future generations. His story reflects the pride of a country that sees science as national strength.As he tells his students: “Our grandparents built China with iron and sweat. Our generation must build it with science and code.”
