By: Liz Do
24 Jun, 2025
In Memoriam: Raymond Laflamme
June 24, 2025
Renowned physicist and former CIFAR director who worked with Stephen Hawking helped shape quantum research in Canada and around the world
Raymond Laflamme, a leading figure in quantum science and a founding member of CIFAR’s Quantum Information Science program (formerly Quantum Information Processing), has passed away at the age of 64.
Laflamme was known for his work on quantum error correction, the simulation of quantum systems, and the experimental development of small-scale quantum devices using spins and photons. He served as Program Director of Quantum Information Processing beginning in 2003 and was appointed as the program’s Advisory Committee Chair in 2019. He co-founded the Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo, helping to establish Canada as a global leader in quantum research.
Laflamme completed his PhD in theoretical physics at Cambridge University under Stephen Hawking, and was co-author of a pivotal paper that led Hawking to revise his views on the reversal of the direction of time in a contracting universe.
“Ray was a visionary researcher and an exemplar of the calibre of CIFAR’s global network of researchers,” said Stephen Toope, President & CEO of CIFAR. “His leadership helped define the direction and impact of our Quantum Information Science program, positioning Canada as a leader in the field. I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”