After his postdoc at SEAS, he co-founded Zapata, a company born from Harvard IP with a meteoric run in quantum computing - attracted seed and Series A funding - but ultimately didn’t stick the landing. He’s since pivoted gracefully to lead Quantum & AI at BCG X, shaping cutting‑edge solutions.

Lab-to-Launch Lounge

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Yudong Cao is the Head of Quantum and AI at BCG X, the tech build & design unit of Boston Consulting Group, where he drives innovative solutions in quantum computing. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Cao has a proven track record in developing advanced quantum algorithms and applications across various industries including national security and pharmaceuticals. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Purdue University, completed his postdoc at the Harvard Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and was the Founding Scientist and Chief Technology Officer of Zapata AI, an early quantum computing and AI software specialist. Recognized for his contributions to the field, he was named to the Boston Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list in 2024.

One piece of advice to Venturing@Harvard

Impact doesn’t transmit magically. It passes through many filters - stakeholders, partners, customers, media. If those layers don’t receive the message correctly, meaning gets lost.