Oluwatobi Lasisi has a clear focus: make quantum computing usable, understandable and practical for the people working at its edge. That clarity–and her ability to bring it to life at scale–earned her a 2025 Global Recognition Award. The honor highlights her work at IBM Quantum, where she leads user research, mentors rising talent and shapes how new technologies actually reach the hands of those who need them.
Her work does not chase headlines. It removes friction, adds structure and makes room for contribution. In a field known for steep learning curves, Lasisi has helped cut through the noise with tools that put users first.
Building Research Around the People Who Use It
At IBM Quantum, Lasisi leads projects that focus on how researchers and developers interact with quantum platforms. She built the IBM Quantum Feedback Program to fix one of the biggest bottlenecks in user testing: slow recruitment. Her system shortened the process by more than 60 percent, allowing teams to test earlier and more often.
Her leadership style is grounded in collaboration. Instead of separating research from design, she works across teams to make sure that user input leads directly to better outcomes. Colleagues say she creates space for others to contribute without forcing them to compete for attention.
Her impact extends to IBM’s early-career development as well. As chair of the Quantum Intern Advisory Board, she helped rework the internship experience by advocating for better onboarding, feedback processes, and communication across teams.
“Dr. Lasisi’s work shows how leadership that listens carefully and acts with purpose can create lasting benefits for technology and people alike,” said Alex Sterling of the Global Recognition Awards.
Research That Moves the Field Forward
Lasisi’s research digs into the everyday details of how people use quantum tools. She has led studies on testing, error mitigation and interface design that directly inform how IBM’s systems evolve. Her work helps replace trial-and-error with data, making development faster and more consistent.
She’s also helped shape how IBM thinks about scale. Her research considers not just how systems work for experts, but how they translate across roles, regions, and experience levels. That kind of consistency matters when building tools meant for long-term use.
“Her research combines technical skill with a clear focus on user-centered design,” said Sterling. “That’s what drives meaningful progress.”
A Practical Guide for the Next Generation
Mentorship is a constant in Lasisi’s field. She creates straightforward learning materials that help new researchers build skills without getting overwhelmed. Her style is direct, hands-on, and grounded in real projects–not theory.
Those who’ve worked with her describe her as steady and clear, someone who makes space for questions without talking down. That combination has shaped teams and individuals across IBM, and helped raise the standard for how research is taught and shared.
Lasisi’s work does not rely on buzzwords. It’s rooted in people, driven by results, and shaped by a clear sense of what matters.
