UNESCO Recognises Catz Alumnus in Quantum100
St Catherine’s College is delighted to announce that Dr Robert Harrison (1980, Physics), European Patent and Trademark Attorney, has latterly been recognised as one of the leading figures in the world of quantum technology. Quantum100 is consistently regarded as one of the most prestigious institutions in the industry; organised by UNESCO and administrated by the International Year of Quantum Technology, it is an annual compilation of the most influential leaders shaping the research, innovation, and commercialisation of quantum technologies worldwide.
Dr Harrison’s inclusion in Quantum100 reflects a distinguished career at the frontier of science, law, and innovation. With a Ph.D. in quantum physics and optics, he has impressed a unique professional footprint by combining deep technical expertise with intellectual property strategy, thereby supporting the growth and commercialisation of cutting-edge quantum technologies. In his work as a European Patent and Trademark Attorney and consultant based in Munich, Dr Harrison has advised start-ups, research institutions, and household industry names on navigating the complex legal landscapes which underpin technology transfer and protection. Alongside his prosperous consulting practice, Robert serves on the board of the European Quantum Industry Consortium, where he offers strategic guidance to initiatives such as PhotonHub Europe, Qu-Test, and Qu-Pilot. His participation is crucial to fostering collaboration and connectivity across industry lines.
Having sold his company in 2024, Dr Harrison’s career now reflects his lifelong commitment to education and mentorship. He came up to Catz in 1980 to read Physics, which provided him with a fruitful basis for his present efforts in lecturing on intellectual property, licensing, and commercialisation in quantum and photonics technologies. His work helps to prepare the next generation of professionals for the compound challenges involved in translating scientific research into real-world application. He is partnered with the German-Australian Business Council, and actively contributes to building international networks which support sustainable growth and innovation in the quantum sector.
About the honour, Dr Harrison commented: “This award would not have been possible without the support of my wife, Michaela, my two children, and my late parents. My love of physics was nurtured at Catz by Mike Leask, Harry Rosenberg, and Neville Robinson, and I profited greatly from the network of postgraduate students and post-doctoral researchers – including a very young Professor Andrew Briggs – who facilitated the tutorials and experimental work. Presently, I’m mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurial scientists, having sold my previous company last year.”
Dr Harrison’s exemplary capacity for technical, legal, and commercial work aligns with the values of Quantum100. The honour is designed to celebrate that the future of quantum science depends not only on repeated breakthroughs, but also on the frameworks which enable such breakthroughs, and permit their fullest social impact.
Image courtesy of UNESCO