Arjun Kudinoor

Hi! I'm Arjun. I'm a Physics PhD student at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and a recent graduate of Cambridge University, where I studied Part III of the Mathematical Tripos . I did my undergraduate at Columbia University, where I studied physics and mathematics.

My academic interests are in theoretical and mathematical physics. Right now, I study the physics of the strong force (quantum chromodynamics, aka QCD) at high temperatures using models of quark gluon plasma and jets that are formed during high-energy collisions of large nuclei. In my current recent work within this field, I use the hybrid model of jet quenching to describe the energy loss experienced by jets as they traverse droplets of quark gluon plasma. I then study the properties of these jets -- like their angular distribution, momentum distribution, and internal structure -- to construct an understanding of QCD physics at high temperatures.

In addition to being a student, I'm also a Quantum Security Advisor at Protegrity, a cybersecurity company that builds modern data protection solutions to safeguard the world’s most sensitive data. At Protegrity, I help build an understanding of and expertise in quantum information and post-quantum cryptography by hosting seminars, and providing my technical guidance and strategic insights into the evolving landscape of quantum technologies for cryptography.

Finally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I founded a nonprofit called Tutors For Change to empower students with free online educational opportunities like tutoring, seminars, and summer schools. Tutors For Change served over 700 students with virtually free tutoring and empowered over 400 volunteers with opportunities to build skills in tutoring, marketing, and fundraising. Although this venture of mine was restricted to the pandemic's timeframe, its impact has outlived the pandemic. We helped students earn their GEDs to access better jobs, sparked excitement in STEM, and supported both students and tutors in gaining admission to top colleges.

As you might have already surmised, my professional interests are very broad. They lie at the intersection of physics, technology, and education. At the center of this intersection is one idea: opportunity. Everyone is capable of success; they just need the opportunities to achieve it. I strive to empower others with such opportunities in the arenas of science, technology, and education.