Anna Knörr

Anna Knörr, originally from Austria and Germany, is a first year PhD student in the Quantum Science & Engineering program. Previously, she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in physics from ETH Zurich and completed the PSI master’s program in theoretical physics at Perimeter Institute in 2023. Before starting her PhD, she spent one year back at ETH Zurich working in science communication and policy around energy, climate and biodiversity issues in Switzerland. She was also strongly involved in the net zero program recently launched at ETH Zurich.

As part of CSSL at Harvard, she hopes to better understand the increasing energy and water consumption of AI used in research and whether or not this should play a role in deciding which direction to pursue future research in. How does fundamental research, such as the development of quantum science and technology, intersect with sustainability considerations? Do they live in separate worlds, with different value systems? Is there a meaningful intersection? When not thinking about research and these questions, you’ll often find her rolling on bjj mats, dancing, being outdoors or writing a quantum-themed play – stay tuned!