Qiskit Fall Fest Finale: Error Mitigation & Careers in Quantum Tech
The grand finale of the IBM Qiskit Fall Fest 2025 featured an expert talk and panel discussion, bridging the gap between quantum research and real-world applications[cite: 4]. The event was held at the Ashima Chatterjee Lecture Hall Theatre, TRC 2nd Floor[cite: 4].
Keynote: Error Mitigation & Careers in Quantum
The featured talk was delivered by Dr. Ritajit Majumdar, a Research Scientist at IBM Quantum[cite: 4]. He provided deep technical insights into tackling noise in modern quantum computers and navigating real-world careers in the field.
During the livestream, Dr. Majumdar explained that mitigating errors is crucial for calculating expectation values in algorithms, although it isn't applicable to exact state preparation like quantum communication [00:01:06]. He detailed how physical imperfections—such as faulty qubit preparation, gate errors, and relaxation during idle times—introduce bias into quantum circuits [00:01:59]. To combat this, he introduced Zero Noise Extrapolation (ZNE) as a method to estimate ideal zero-noise expectation values by artificially scaling the noise through gate folding [00:11:17]. He also broke down practical challenges with ZNE and explained how "partial folding" is utilized to maintain signal integrity for deeper circuits [00:20:25].
Panel Discussion: Industry & Academia
Following the technical talk, Dr. Majumdar was joined by esteemed faculty members from DPS and CDS for a live panel discussion. The panel addressed:
- The roadmap to practical quantum advantage.
- Critical skills needed for the emerging quantum workforce.
- How industry and academia can collaborate to accelerate innovation.
(A full recording of the technical talk is available via the YouTube resource link above).