Laura Ortiz Martín

Laura Ortiz Martín serves as Associate Professor at the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) within the School of Computer Engineering and Department of Computer Systems Architecture and Technology. She actively contributes to the Quantum Information and Computation Group (GIICC) and Center for Computational Simulation (CCS), teaching engineering programs while leading cutting-edge quantum research initiatives.

Her academic foundation includes:

• PhD in Physics, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 2018 (awarded Springer Theses prize)
• Master in Theoretical Physics, UCM
• Bachelor in Physics, UCM (2009-2013)

Her research centers on quantum information systems, with current emphasis on quantum communication protocols beyond key distribution—including quantum oblivious transfer—and topological quantum error correction. Earlier work involved quantum sensing with NV centers and tensor network applications, yielding publications in high-impact venues like Nature Quantum Information. This interdisciplinary work bridges physics, computer engineering, and cryptography.

Her distinguished awards include the Springer Theses prize for doctoral excellence and selection for the Virtual Special Issue on Women in Physics 2017.

She mentors two PhD candidates and multiple Master's students while securing substantial research funding. As co-Principal Investigator for three international projects, she coordinates Spain's national Quantum Communications Complementary Plan with €75M+ funding. Her teaching spans quantum physics courses across engineering disciplines at UPM and Comillas University.

Dr. Ortiz Martín drives innovation through UPM's Quantum Information and Computation Group (GIICC), focusing on practical quantum network implementations. She also contributes to the Digital Technology and Learning Innovation Group and ActuaUPM entrepreneurship program to translate quantum research into societal applications.