Shelby Kimmel

Shelby Kimmel is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Middlebury College, where she works with undergraduate students in both classroom instruction and research projects. Previously, she was a Hartree Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Maryland in QuICS (Joint Center for Quantum Information and Computer Science). She earned her PhD in physics from MIT and completed her undergraduate studies in astrophysics at Williams College.

Dr. Kimmel specializes in quantum computing research, focusing on the design of quantum algorithms and proving their superiority over classical alternatives. Her work includes creating efficient methods for characterizing errors in experimental quantum computers, as well as exploring quantum complexity theory and quantum information theory. She has made significant contributions to the field of quantum query complexity, developing algorithms that solve problems with fewer queries than classical approaches.

Her research spans multiple areas within quantum computing, with a particular emphasis on graph problems, connectivity algorithms, and process tomography. Analysis of her publication record shows a consistent focus on developing practical quantum algorithms with provable advantages over classical methods, while also addressing the experimental challenges of implementing these algorithms on real quantum hardware. Her work bridges theoretical computer science and experimental quantum physics.

Dr. Kimmel actively mentors students and has advised numerous undergraduate researchers who have gone on to pursue PhDs at prestigious institutions. She also serves as an advisor to Middlebury College Women in Computer Science and has mentored women in physics through programs at University of Maryland and MIT.

She maintains an active speaking schedule, presenting her research at major quantum computing conferences and institutions worldwide, from the Simons Institute to IBM research facilities. Her talks cover diverse aspects of quantum algorithms, including path detection, quantum connectivity, and error characterization techniques.

Beyond her academic work, Dr. Kimmel enjoys playing and teaching traditional Korean drumming, demonstrating her commitment to cultural engagement alongside her scientific pursuits.