Peter Johnson

Peter Johnson, Ph.D.

Lead Research Scientist & Founder

Peter Johnson received his Ph.D. in physics from Dartmouth College in 2016 specializing in quantum information science under the supervision of Lorenza Viola. From 2016-2018 he did postdoctoral work in quantum algorithms with the Aspuru-Guzik group in the Department of Chemical and Chemical Biology at Harvard University. He then co-founded Zapata Computing along with other researchers from the Aspuru-Guzik group and currently works there as lead research scientist developing quantum algorithms and software.

Question & Answer

Why have you chosen a career in quantum?

Came for the physics, stayed for the quantum.

What is a quantum problem you dream of solving?

In the same way that use of electricity precipitated the understanding of electromagnetism, I dream that computing with quantum devices will lead us to “really” understand the quantum.

What are a few of your favorite things?

Home-cooked meals with lots of vegetables, making music with friends, and riddles.

What’s your spirit animal (pokemon)?


What’s your superpower?

Making time vanish while engaging in conversation.


I would love to share a meal with a great-great-great grandparent and one of my great-great-great grandchildren to learn what things change and what things stay the same.