Aditya Kher, PhD

Applied Physicist
Quantum and Defense Tech

I’m an applied physicist and systems engineer with deep experience in both the quantum technology and aerospace & defense industries. I’ve spent my career on R&D projects ranging from quantum sensing and computing to satellite-based remote sensing systems, and have contributed everywhere from early-stage research to rapid development and operational fielding. My expertise lies in applying rigorous, first-principles and systems-level thinking to problems in computational modeling, mission-critical algorithms, and advanced hardware development. I enjoy and am especially motivated by using deep physical principles and intuition on mission-oriented technology projects, whether it’s early-stage R&D or something that will ship in months.

I received my PhD in Applied Physics from Caltech, where I was a member of the sophomore class of NASA Space Technology Research Fellows. I shuttled between campus and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory for my research, which focused on novel superconducting sensor and amplifier technologies for astronomy instrumentation. Prior to that, I also received an MS from Caltech, and a BS from the University of California, San Diego.

Check out the pages describing my professional work relevant to quantum and aerospace/defense. You can also take a look at my full CV.

When I’m not working, I’m typically reading The Economist, watching an arthouse film at an independent cinema, or doing some spirited driving in the canyons of Southern California.

Feel free to reach out on LinkedIn if you want to talk physics, technology, movies, or anything else!