An important moment for quantum biology
October 26, 2026
Northwestern Chemistry professors Songi Han and Michael Wasielewski explore the emerging field of quantum biology and its potential to transform our understanding of living systems.
What if quantum mechanics could help explain some of biology's greatest mysteries, from how birds navigate long migrations to how plants convert sunlight into energy?
In the first of a two-part Northwestern Now series, Chemistry professors Songi Han and Michael Wasielewski discuss the emerging field of quantum biology, which investigates whether quantum phenomena play a role in biological processes at the molecular level.
The feature coincides with the 2026 Quantum Effects at the Biology and Innovation Interface (QBi²) workshop, co-organized by Han and University of Chicago professor Peter Maurer. The event brought together researchers and students to explore the intersection of quantum science and biology.