Ex-IBM ace takes key quantum error correction role at Riverlane

She is a highly regarded leader in the quantum computing industry with extensive experience developing open-source tools and fostering global technology communities. Her expertise will be instrumental in advancing QEC and accelerating Riverlane’s mission to make quantum computing useful, sooner.

Durst is best known for her role in building IBM Quantum’s Qiskit, which has grown to dominate over 80 per cent of the quantum computing developer tools market.

Today, this open-source software development kit (SDK) attracts more than 600,000 users worldwide and continues to democratise access to quantum computing, enabling researchers and developers to explore and contribute to the field.

Through Durst’s efforts to build the quantum workforce, Qiskit is now used by over 700 universities worldwide to teach the fundamentals of quantum computing.

Quantum computing is entering a new phase – the ‘QEC era’– marked by significant advancements in quantum error correction. As this technology matures, it presents fresh technical challenges and a growing need to empower the next generation of learners and innovators.

Steve Brierley, CEO and Founder of Riverlane, said: “The NISQ era marked the beginning of meaningful engagement with quantum computing and Liz was at the forefront of that movement.

“Now, at the dawn of a new era for quantum computing, we see parallels and enormous opportunities to create a similar impact in quantum error correction. With Liz at the helm of our community efforts, Riverlane is well-positioned to lead this exciting new chapter.”

As VP of QEC Community, Durst will focus on building a software development kit for quantum error correction along with learning resources to prepare the global quantum community for working with logical qubits and error corrected systems.

She says: “I’m thrilled to join Riverlane, a company that’s not only leading in quantum error correction but also deeply committed to building the strong, collaborative community needed to realise its full potential.

“I’m passionate about empowering people worldwide to use and advance quantum computing. Beyond providing tools, I’m motivated by the opportunity to enable education and inclusivity, building a welcoming future workforce ready to make meaningful contributions.

“Having seen first hand how thriving open-source ecosystems can drive progress, I look forward to working with Riverlane to accelerate the path to useful fault tolerant quantum computers.”

Durst joins Riverlane’s world-class team of quantum researchers, hardware engineers and chip designers – many of whom have spearheaded large-scale projects at companies like Amazon, Arm and Microsoft.