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Dane W. deQuilettes

Title:
Quantum Materials Chemist
Staff Bio:
A photo of Dan in a quantum laboratory. He is wearing a hairnet, glasses, and a lab coat. Metal tubes and wires are in the background and foreground.
Within my first few months at the Laboratory, I pitched a new idea for growing quantum diamonds with one of my colleagues, and it was funded internally through the Technology Office.

Where are you originally from?

I am from a small farming town in central Washington state called Lake Chelan. I really enjoyed growing up in a small town with not much to do; it inspired a lot of my creative outlets.

Why do you think the Laboratory is a good fit for you?

The Laboratory has drawn many great minds into quantum research, and one of my goals in joining the Laboratory was to learn more from all the experts in this exciting field. I feel very lucky to work with so many of these people.

What has been a standout achievement in your career at the Laboratory?

Within my first few months at the Laboratory, I pitched a new idea for growing quantum diamonds with one of my colleagues, and it was funded internally through the Technology Office! I'm really excited because it will allow our team to establish a huge competitive advantage in our field and also pioneer a lot of interesting materials chemistry research.

What are you most grateful for in your life?

Since graduate school, I've been amazed that I can get paid to do research to explore the limits of our knowledge. I feel grateful to have a job that doesn't really feel like a job, and I know that I will carry this gratitude throughout my life.