Scientific Controversies: Quantum Weirdness
A full century after the discovery of a peculiar microscopic world, quantum mechanics has triumphed as the most precisely verified physical theory in the history of science. Yet the quantum world defies everyday intuition and conventional notions of reality. Particles exist in eerie superpositions, simultaneously there and not there, or become mysteriously entangled across vast separations, challenging comprehension.
In this episode of Scientific Controversies, we take on Quantum Weirdness and its most pressing contemporary implications. Our guests are renowned scientist Paul Davies, author of the new book Quantum 2.0, and innovative experimental quantum physicist Natalia Ares. Hosted by our director of sciences, Janna Levin, our guests will describe a quantum technology revolution unfolding in the burgeoning field of “quantum information science,” featuring new tools such as quantum computers, quantum cryptography, and the quantum internet—technologies that have attracted billions of dollars in investments and triggered a frantic quantum arms race between nations. At the same time, theorists are wrestling with this quantum realm, where ghostly quantum particles influence nanotechnology, cause black holes to evaporate, and may even contribute to the universe’s expansion.
Come early to explore the quantum realm with hands-on demonstrations by David Maiullo, creator of over 4,000 physics demos at Rutgers University. Experience particles and waves, learn to live with uncertainty, play with lasers and magnets, and actually see the invisible parts of our reality.
Before and after the conversation, enjoy grooves and visuals by DJ Black Helmet, food available for purchase, and stargazing in the garden with the Amateur Astronomers Association, weather permitting. A special-edition patch designed by artist Andrea Lauer will be available for purchase at the event.
Please note that seating is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
About the speakers
Paul Davies is a theoretical physicist and author who has worked on the origin and very early stages of the universe, on the quantum properties of black holes, and the nature of time. He has published numerous acclaimed books presenting cutting-edge physics to general audiences.
Natalia Ares is a physicist at the University of Oxford whose research explores quantum systems at the nanoscale. Her work focuses on quantum transport, nanoscale devices, and the fundamental behavior of electrons in low-dimensional systems, helping to illuminate how quantum effects emerge and can be controlled in real materials. She is also committed to teaching and mentoring the next generation of physicists.
Janna Levin is a professor of physics and astronomy at Barnard College of Columbia University. A Guggenheim Fellow, she has contributed to our understanding of black holes, extra dimensions, and cosmology. She is the Founding Director of Sciences at Pioneer Works and the co-editor-in-chief of Pioneer Works Broadcast. She often contributes to news, documentaries, and radio, including as the presenter of the NOVA feature Black Hole Apocalypse on PBS. She has authored books on black holes—Black Hole Blues and How the Universe Got its Spots—as well as a PEN award–winning novel, A Madman Dreams of Turing Machines. Her most recent book is Black Hole Survival Guide. You can find her current writings on her Substack publication, Higher Dimensions.
About the participants
DJ Black Helmet (Azikiwe Mohammed) is a New York-based DJ and musician who specializes in long-form live mixes and generative ambient works. He has performed at venues such as Elsewhere, Bembe, Pioneer Works, Public Records, Roulette Intermedium, The High Line, MoMA, and MoMA PS1. He currently has a weekly radio show on WFMU’s “Give The Drummer” radio called “Your Boy Black Helmet Radio.” He is founder and director of the Black Painters Academy, the home for the New Davonhaime Food Bank—a food bank based in Manhattan’s Chinatown that focuses on health equity and community wellness.
Andrea Lauer is an artist and designer whose work spans costume and set design, styling, and innovation across the arts and sciences. With over 50 national and international production credits—including Broadway, music tours, and television—her designs have been featured in Vogue, Rolling Stone, and Interview. Lauer is the founder of RISEN DIVISION, a sustainable fashion label known for its signature jumpsuits. Her practice explores the intersection of storytelling, material culture, and embodied experience. She often incorporates technology, sustainability, and symbolic forms. She is an alumna resident of Pioneer Works, and she collaborates on the Scientific Controversies series to create collectible patches, bandanas, and artifacts that visually interpret complex scientific ideas with bold, poetic design.
David Maiullo is a longtime Physics Support Specialist in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rutgers University, where he has worked for over 40 years building one of the nation’s largest and most advanced physics demonstration programs. He is known for creating and delivering engaging physics demonstrations that bring scientific principles to life, both for students and the public. Maiullo has led the development of thousands of original demos, mentored hundreds of student workers, and expanded Rutgers’ outreach with virtual demonstrations and performances used nationwide. He also co-founded the popular Faraday Holiday Show in New Jersey and created That Physics Show, a physics-themed theater production that has been recognized off-Broadway. For his contributions, he has received major awards from Rutgers and national teaching organizations.