Women of Quantum Technology: Mamta Gupta of Lattice Semiconductor
In quantum computing and cybersecurity industries, Mamta Gupta, the Director of Comms and Security Segment Marketing at Lattice Semiconductor emerges as a pivotal figure, advocating for the blend of diversity and cutting-edge technology to solve some of the world’s most complex problems. Gupta’s journey from a physics undergraduate fascinated by superconductivity to a leading strategist in quantum computing encapsulates the essence of innovation driven by curiosity.
“My background is in physics, as my degree is in physics,” Gupta told Inside Quantum Technology. Her interest in quantum computing was piqued when she saw an interesting scientific demonstration during her undergraduate studies. “We had a demo about superconductivity, and that fascinated me so much. So, I started looking into it. And then I ended up doing my master’s in quantum physics.” This moment of wonder not only set the course for her career but also underscored the significant impact that exposure to science can have on young minds.
Gupta’s career trajectory, which has seen her transition from software engineering to pivotal roles in cybersecurity and eventually to quantum computing, highlights the interdisciplinary nature of today’s tech landscape.
“It almost happened organically,” she explained, detailing her journey through different sectors, eventually leading to her current focus on quantum computing’s implications for cybersecurity. As experts predict quantum computing poses serious threats to current data encryption methods, cybersecurity-focused companies and individuals are looking further into this potential problem. During her various roles, Gupta continually monitored the progress of quantum computing, specifically for cybersecurity. Once she was hired at Lattice Semiconductor in 2018, Gupta worked with the company’s stakeholders to strategize methods for quantum-safe cybersecurity.
“In discussions with our customers and their concerns, with regulatory bodies and upcoming regulations, and with our management, we saw an opportunity to solve this problem,” She mentioned. “I started leading the quantum-focused team and hosting webinars and panels, making sure people were aware of the threat.”
Now, as the Sr. Director of Data Centers, Comms, and Security segment marketing at Lattice Semiconductor, Gupta’s role is strategic and innovative, focusing on the potential of FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) to address the burgeoning challenges and opportunities of quantum computing. “FPGAs are reprogrammable silicon devices. So they give you a very flexible way of implementing solutions,” she said, underlining the significance of adaptable technologies in a field as dynamic as quantum computing.
Gupta is also deeply involved in shaping the future of cybersecurity in the quantum age, engaging with a global clientele to devise cutting-edge and secure solutions. “I am constantly interacting with our customers and industry partners, again looking at various issues and problems that our customers are trying to solve.” Gupta describes her approach to fostering collaborations that drive innovation and security in the quantum computing sector.
Beyond just being a technical expert, Gupta fervently advocates diversity in the fields of quantum computing and cybersecurity. She firmly believes that quantum technology’s unique challenges and opportunities necessitate a broad spectrum of perspectives. “To effectively address these challenges, diverse views are essential…The question of which problem to solve requires a diverse group of people,” Gupta asserted, underscoring the pivotal role diversity plays in problem-solving and shaping the trajectory of quantum computing’s application.
To promote diversity, Gupta suggests a multi-pronged approach, increasing access and exposure to quantum technologies, showcasing diverse role models, and implementing outreach programs to demystify quantum mechanics. She also points to the importance of financial aid and support for students pursuing this demanding field, ensuring that the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers come from varied backgrounds.
Kenna Hughes-Castleberry is the Managing Editor at Inside Quantum Technology and the Science Communicator at JILA (a partnership between the University of Colorado Boulder and NIST). Her writing beats include deep tech, quantum computing, and AI. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Scientific American, Discover Magazine, New Scientist, Ars Technica, and more.
