OUR TEAM
Dr. Norbert Lütkenhaus
President
Dr. Norbert Lütkenhaus is the President of IQC Canada Inc., the Executive Director of the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo, and a professor in the Faculty of Science. He also leads the Optical Quantum Communication Theory Group at IQC.
He began researching quantum information in 1993, earning his PhD from the University of Strathclyde in Scotland, UK. His PhD research established the foundation of the ongoing security analysis of optical implementations of quantum key distribution (QKD), leading to the first complete security analysis of practical QKD. His current research is at the intersection between theoretical quantum protocols and practical realizations where he is developing quantum optical versions of protocols that realize quantum communication and information complexity advantages.
His career has included research positions in Austria, Finland and Germany. He has spent time in industry, working on the first commercial realization of quantum key distribution in 2000. He has also authored several patents and is co-founder and CTO of evolutionQ Inc.
He serves on the Advisory Board of several international high profile research networks, conference, and workshop series, and also serves as Vice-Chair of the ETSI Industry Specification Group on Quantum Key Distribution. He is an Affiliate Member of the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics. His international leadership is recognized through his election as Fellow of the American Physical Society.
Chantal Drouin-Charters
Operations Manager
Chantal has a passion for problem-solving and a strong background in office administration, financial management, and IT coordination. Experience in the non-profit sector has equipped her with a deep understanding of its unique challenges and opportunities. Whether streamlining processes or leading cross-functional teams, she thrives in dynamic environments.
Mehrunnisa Kharodia
Board Secretary
Mehrunnisa (she/her) is the Director of Partnerships and Operations at Social Venture Partners Waterloo Region. Since joining SVP, she's loved connecting with other non-profit leaders, and learning about social issues impacting the community. Mehrunnisa completed her MBA from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2021, with a specialization in strategic management, which has been important in her work at SVP. In her work prior, she worked in the amateur sports world, managing programs at every level, from youth participation to high performance athletes. Mehrunnisa sits on the Boards of the Hespeler Tennis Club and the Waterloo Region Community Foundation.
