Quantum Scholars Highlight - Eric Rodriguez

This week, we highlight Quantum Scholar Eric Rodriguez, a senior in Astrophysics and Mathematics at CU Boulder!

Over the last few years, Eric has discovered a love of quantum physics, particularly theoretical and mathematical approaches. Joining Quantum Scholars was a step he took towards making connections with experts in the field and others that might provide him with opportunities. Eric said, with regards to quantum physics, “it is an exciting field in its infancy, and I want to contribute to the growth that it will provide to society in the coming decades.”

In Quantum Scholars, Eric has found a particularly welcoming environment that is friendly to everyone. He has also found it is a great place to begin with making connections, as the program is good at connecting people who do not already have extensive networks. Therefore, the opportunity to meet and connect in a way that inspires success is Eric’s favorite part of the Quantum Scholars program. 

Eric is currently involved in a research group that is overseen by Ute C. Herzfeld, a research professor in Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering. Eric works with data from several satellite missions, one of which is called CALIPSO. In his research, he uses a Density-Dimension-Algorithm to analyze atmospheric lidar data. 

Once he graduates from his undergraduate program, Eric would love to head outside of the United States, perhaps to Switzerland or Denmark. He is particularly interested in École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and KU in Copenhagen. No matter where he goes, he wants to study quantum science. After that, he wants to either pursue a PhD in quantum science or go into the industry. 

Eric likes to ski, hike and run in the mountains. He is also a fan of playing tennis and weightlifting, and he loves to cook Spanish food for his friends and family!