In this week’s edition of The Prototype, we delve into the recent Nobel Prize in Physics, a startup utilizing AI for pathogen tracking, a breakthrough in quantum cooling, and more. To receive The Prototype directly in your inbox, sign up here.
Goeran Johansson, Member of the Nobel Committee for Physics, addresses a press conference on the awarding of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics
AFP via Getty Images
This week, three researchers were honored for their contributions to the development of quantum computers. John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their groundbreaking experiments in the 1980s.
The trio constructed a superconducting electric circuit that allowed for the flow of electricity without resistance. Within this circuit, they were able to manipulate electrons to exhibit specific quantum mechanical properties. This discovery is now being utilized by leading tech companies such as Google and IBM in their quantum computing endeavors.
All three scientists continue to build upon this seminal work. Clarke, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, has employed this technology in the Axion Dark Matter Experiment to aid in the detection of dark matter. Martinis, who previously worked at Google Quantum A.I. lab, co-founded the quantum computing startup Qolab. Devoret currently serves as the Chief Scientist at Google’s Quantum A.I. lab.
Reflecting on the award, Devoret expressed, “I am honored to share this prize with my colleagues and friends John Clarke and John Martinis. This Nobel Prize celebrates more than just the work of three individuals; it acknowledges a 40-year journey undertaken by researchers worldwide.”
AI-Powered Startup Secures $7 Million for Pathogen Tracking
Hyperspectral CEO Matt Theurer
Hyperspectral
Detecting harmful pathogens and toxins poses a significant challenge for healthcare facilities and food preparation establishments. The intricate nature of microscopic threats coupled with the time-consuming process of laboratory testing complicates the identification of contamination.
Matt Theurer recognized this issue during the peak of the Covid pandemic when rapid testing was scarce. He remarked, “We all recall waiting in long lines for testing and then receiving results days later. It was inefficient, centralized, and costly.”
His company, Hyperspectral, aims to address this challenge. Established in 2022 by Theurer (CEO), Lauren Stack (COO), and Vince Lubsey (CTO), Hyperspectral leverages spectrography and AI to swiftly detect potential hazardous microorganisms or chemicals. Recently, the company secured a $7 million series A extension, bringing its total funding to approximately $15.5 million. The company’s valuation remains undisclosed.
Spectrography operates on a fundamental principle: when specific light frequencies are directed at various objects, they reflect or absorb these frequencies uniquely. This enables scientists to differentiate and categorize different substances. Hyperspectral’s AI models are trained on data from numerous pathogens, enabling its software to swiftly identify potential contamination within minutes.
With the additional funding, Theurer disclosed that the company is transitioning out of beta testing and is focused on introducing its “science as a service” to initial customers. He added, “Our next objective is to scale our operations.”
Breakthrough in Quantum Superconducting Temperature
Quantum hardware startup EeroQ recently revealed its ability to operate a superconducting chip at temperatures slightly above 1 Kelvin—just one degree higher than absolute zero. Current quantum computers utilizing these chips require cooling to 0.01 K to function. Although the temperature difference may seem minor, it represents a significant advancement in enhancing their practicality. Cooling below 1 K necessitates specialized and costly equipment that is unnecessary to reach 1 K. (Interestingly, this development poses challenges for companies planning to extract helium-3 on the Moon, as quantum computing, which utilizes this isotope in its refrigeration process, is a primary application for it.)
Other Highlights from the Week
Silicon Valley startup Lilac Solutions is focused on extracting lithium from briny water in oil fields and locations such as the Great Salt Lake in Utah, rather than traditional mining methods.
Researchers at Florida International University have developed cyberdefenses to safeguard drones from potential hijacking.
Rocket startup Stoke Space secured a $510 million investment to advance the development of its reusable spacecraft Nova and finalize its launch facility at Cape Canaveral.
Brain-computer interface startup Cognixion initiated a clinical study to test its software with an Apple Vision Pro, enabling paralyzed individuals to communicate and operate a computer. Earlier this year, I explored Cognixion’s technology.
An international team of scientists successfully revived microorganisms that had been entombed in permafrost for millennia.
Engineers at MIT have developed an aluminum alloy capable of 3D printing and exhibiting five times the strength of conventionally cast aluminum. This innovation is ideal for aircraft components that currently rely on heavier metals like titanium.
Pro Science Tip: Preserve Cognitive Function with Creative Pursuits
If you wish to maintain cognitive vitality, engage in creative hobbies. A recent study involving over 1,400 individuals found that long-term engagement in creative activities such as music, painting, or writing leads to a “youthful” brain, as evidenced by cognitive assessments and brain scans. Interestingly, the specific type of creative pursuit did not impact the results—all creative endeavors aid in safeguarding vulnerable brain connections from premature aging, according to study co-author Carlos Coronel.
Current Musical Obsession
While many are engrossed in discussions about Taylor Swift’s latest release (which is decent, not exceptional), I’d like to spotlight what I believe is the standout pop album of 2025: Born Blue by singer-songwriter Kings Eliot. This debut record is a tour de force, featuring emotive ballads like “Ashes In The Morning,” soulful tracks like “Starcrossed,” and infectious tunes like “The Promise.” Elliot’s music showcases her versatility and depth, promising an exciting trajectory in her musical journey.
Additional Insights from Forbes
