Saffman is recognized for pioneering contributions to quantum simulation and quantum computing with neutral atoms
Infleqtion (the “Company”), a global leader in neutral atom-based quantum technology, announced that Chief Scientist for Quantum Information Dr. Mark Saffman was awarded the ninth Biennial John Stewart Bell Prize for Research on Fundamental Issues in Quantum Mechanics and Their Applications. His work underpins Infleqtion’s quantum computing roadmap as the company moves toward delivering fault-tolerant quantum systems critical for achieving quantum advantage and unlocking real-world applications for quantum sensing and computing. Infleqtion recently announced plans to go public through a combination with Churchill Capital Corp X (NASDAQ: CCCX).
“I am so humbled to be picked as a recipient of the John Stewart Bell Prize. This is truly one of the highlights of my career,” said Dr. Mark Saffman, Chief Scientist for Quantum Information at Infleqtion. “Every year, this award highlights the major advances in our field, and when you examine the body of work that has been selected since 2009, you can clearly see how fast our field is developing and how quickly we’ve gone from theoretical to practical applications. The work that my team and I do in the lab and the work Infleqtion is doing to commercialize quantum is, in real time, changing how we understand the world around us and opening new possibilities for research and commerce.”
The John Stewart Bell Prize, established in 2009, is awarded biennially to scientists who have made significant advances within the six years preceding the award in areas such as quantum information theory, quantum computation, quantum foundations, quantum cryptography, and quantum control. Dr. Saffman will be formally honored alongside Antoine Browaeys and Mikhail Lukin at the 11th International Conference on Quantum Information and Quantum Control (CQIQC‑XI), to be held at the University of Toronto.
“Mark’s work is reshaping how humanity understands the world around us, and it’s unlocking new avenues for research and commercial applications for quantum, like the ones we build at Infleqtion,” said Matt Kinsella, CEO of Infleqtion. “In quantum, the battle for talent is fierce. Mark is at the top of the field, and when you think about the important missions of our customers, his work is reshaping the world and has the potential to change the course of history. We are lucky to have him on our team and proud of him for securing this well-deserved honor.”
This news comes after Saffman was awarded the prestigious Norman F. Ramsey Prize by the American Physical Society (APS).
Saffman is the Johannes Rydberg Professor of Physics at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the director of the Wisconsin Quantum Institute. He has invented methods for quantum control of neutral atoms and achieved high-fidelity two-qubit operations using Rydberg blockade before joining Infleqtion to accelerate the shift from laboratory research to engineered quantum systems, co-authoring the first successful execution of a quantum algorithm on an atomic quantum computer.
About Infleqtion
Infleqtion is a global leader in neutral-atom quantum technology. We design and build quantum computers, precision sensors, and quantum software for governments, enterprises, and research institutions. Our commercial portfolio includes quantum computers as well as quantum RF systems, quantum clocks, and inertial navigation solutions. Infleqtion is the partner of choice for governments and commercial customers seeking cutting-edge quantum capabilities. Infleqtion announced in September 2025 it plans to go public via a merger with Churchill X (NASDAQ: CCCX). For more information, visit Infleqtion.com or follow Infleqtion on LinkedIn, YouTube, and X.