Charlie Marcus is Professor of Physics at Harvard. His research focuses on fabrication of submicron electronic structures — semiconductor quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, and graphene-based microstructures -- and measurement of their electron transport properties at low temperatures. His scientific interests include mesoscopic quantum phenomena, at the interface between micro and macro scales -- where quantum properties coexist with disorder and decoherence. Charlie’s current research includes investigations of spin-based qubits for quantum information processing, and schemes for topological quantum computing based on the fractional quantum Hall effect. He is also exploring the use of quantum dots in medical imaging, focusing primarily on novel materials as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging. About TEDx, x = independently organized event: In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.) On January 14, 2011, Caltech hosted TEDxCaltech, an exciting one-day event to honor Richard Feynman, Nobel