Maxim Quartly

I’m a physicist and technologist with a deep interest in quantum theory, computational methods, and the intersection between science and innovation. I’m currently pursuing an MSc in Quantum Technologies at University College London (UCL), where my research focuses on the mathematical framework of quantum contextuality. Working under Prof. Samson Abramsky and Dr. Martti Karvonen, I’ve been exploring State-Independent Contextuality (SIC) through the Yu and Oh (YO-3D) construction. In my work, I identified witnesses of logical contextuality, disproved the existence of a witness for strong contextuality, and proposed a method to generalize the YO construction to higher dimensions, discovering a candidate vector set defining the YO-4D.

Before UCL, I completed a BSc in Astrophysics at Queen Mary University of London, where I graduated with First Class Honours. My undergraduate research, supervised by Prof. Chris Clarkson, focused on the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) and its implications for future cosmological research. These experiences strengthened my analytical and computational skills and deepened my curiosity about how quantum mechanics and mathematics can provide new insights into the universe.

Alongside my academic work, I have extensive experience in technical leadership and entrepreneurship. As CTO and Co-Founder of Bren, I led the end-to-end development of a scalable platform designed to improve communication and collaboration within teams. I managed a cross-functional team, oversaw architectural and data security decisions, and guided the product from concept to deployment. I also engaged with investors, secured funding, and built strategic partnerships—skills that taught me how to balance scientific precision with business strategy.

I’m currently working as a Research Assistant at UCL, studying contextuality in quantum error correction codes, and I previously served as a Partnerships Executive at TASonline, where I increased client acquisition by 60% and expanded the company’s reach into three new markets. Earlier, I worked as a private tutor in mathematics and physics, helping students improve their understanding and confidence in the subjects.

I’ve also enjoyed participating in scientific competitions such as the NASA Web Apps Challenge, where my team modeled a Mars Cycler trajectory using Python, and the University Physics Challenge, where I led a team to simulate dynamic systems.

Through my studies, research, and entrepreneurial experiences, I’ve developed a strong blend of scientific curiosity, technical expertise, and leadership. I’m driven by a desire to push the boundaries of what’s possible—both in understanding quantum systems and in building technologies that make complex ideas accessible and impactful.