Entangled States

“Padavic-Callaghan’s prose is vulnerable and sharp … They push the boundaries of what a science book can be … An unconventional take on physics that stings like an exposed nerve and shines with humanity.”
—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

“Beautifully blends quantum physics with memoir … One of the greatest strengths is the writer’s honesty and vulnerability as they describe the lessons their experiences have taught them through the years.”
—BookBrowse

“An utterly unique journey into the quantum life—one where a love of quantum physics helps a queer immigrant make sense of who they are and make meaning of the cosmos. Come for the analysis of Freddie Mercury’s farewell album, stay for the clear, accessible explanations of next-generation quantum information science. Padavic-Callaghan has written an inspiring book about physics that beautifully centers the importance of being true to yourself.”
—Chanda Prescod-Weinstein, author of The Disordered Cosmos

“A lyrical study of temporal frames and the capacious interactions coupled with a powerful self-inquiry into the personal and cultural cost of achieving academic success as a late-twentieth-century queer immigrant. Entangled States is a portrait of survival through the systems of irreducibility, illustrating the probabilities of different, dare I say, exciting outcomes in a powerfully lived life.”
—Raquel Gutiérrez, author of Brown Neon

“A stunning and invigorating memoir at the intersections of science, gender, place, and wonder. I was awed by Karmela Padavic-Callaghan’s ability to engage elevated physics theory alongside such gorgeous and thoughtful prose, and to meditate so intimately on the particularities of a human life alongside explanations for our universal atomic experiences. A truly remarkable debut.”
—Raechel Anne Jolie, author of Rust Belt Femme

Karmela Padavic-Callaghan is a scientist, a journalist, and an educator based in New York City. A staff writer at New Scientist, they report on physics, materials science, and quantum technology. They hold a PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics and atomic, molecular and optical physics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Their research has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including Physical Review Letters and New Journal of Physics. Their popular science writing has been featured in such publications as Wired, Scientific American, Aeon, Slate, and MIT Technology Review.

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