The University of Hong Kong (HKU) announced Wednesday that Giulio Chiribella, an associate professor at its Computer Science Department, has been selected a CIFAR-Azrieli Global Scholar.

Founded by the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) and the Azrieli Foundation, the CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars program aims to support young innovators at a pivotal time in their careers. Chiribella is among the first cohort of 18 CIFAR-Azrieli Global Scholars selected from all over the world, and the first in Asia.

"Giulio leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to design new devices that push our information technology towards its ultimate limits. It's this enthusiasm for pairing boundary pushing research with real-world impact that really stood out to us," said Pamela Kanellis, Director of Research &Global Academy at CIFAR.

According to HKU, Chiribella's team is now exploring how quantum devices can be controlled with minimum amounts of resources, with applications ranging from energy-efficient computing to quantum sensor networks and to the simulation of complex systems.

"I am thrilled to the idea that, with the support and mentoring of the CIFAR network, our group at HKUCS could contribute to the vibrant landscape of quantum information in Hong Kong, as well as the development of an international hub for cutting-edge research in the field," Chiribella said.