Portrait of an alumna: Dr. Iris Schwenk

Iris Schwenk studied physics at KIT and completed her doctorate at the Institute for Theoretical Solid State Physics at KIT on the reconstruction and verification of quantum simulations. She then founded HQS Quantum Simulations with three co-founders. As COO, Iris Schwenk is responsible for everything that keeps the company running and oversees customer-oriented software development.

What valuable experiences and insights from your studies still shape you today?

"One of the most valuable skills I learned during my studies at KIT was how to quickly familiarize myself with unfamiliar topics. This skill is crucial for me as a founder, as I am confronted with new challenges and issues every day. My studies not only gave me specialist knowledge, but also the methodology to analyze complex problems and develop solutions. This ability to quickly familiarize myself with new content shapes my everyday professional life and is a key component of my success."

What added value do you gain from being a member of the alumni network?

"Even after our spin-off, we have remained in close contact with KIT. KIT and the alumni network give us access to a valuable network that is very important for both recruitment and research partnerships."

What is your vision for KIT?

"My vision for KIT is that it continues to excel in shaping the transition from basic research to valuable applications. I see KIT as a place where critical and analytical thinking and problem-solving skills are taught. It is important that students are not only trained in basic research, but also develop an awareness of the utilization of their findings. I would like KIT to play a central role in promoting entrepreneurship and technological progress by empowering students and researchers to put innovative ideas into practice, for example through start-ups."