Ray Harishankar

Ray Harishankar is an IBM Fellow and Vice President in IBM Research, where he leads strategy and innovation for IBM Quantum Safe. In this role, Ray oversees the development of IBM’s quantum-safe products, engineering initiatives, and thought leadership efforts, ensuring clients are prepared for the post-quantum era.

Leveraging IBM’s deep expertise in security services and post-quantum cryptography, Ray works closely with clients across banking, insurance, telecommunications, and government to apply quantum-safe technologies in practical, real-world settings. He also serves on technology advisory councils for select clients and universities, helping shape the next generation of secure computing practices.

Since joining IBM in 1999, Ray has been recognized for his exceptional technical leadership—named Distinguished Engineer in 2003 and IBM Fellow in 2006, the company’s highest honor for technical innovation. His contributions have earned him numerous distinctions, including Asian American Engineer of the Year (2009), Distinguished Alumnus of The Ohio State University College of Engineering (2013), and recognition in Marquis Who’s Who (2024).

Ray has co-authored two books, most recently “Becoming Quantum Safe” (2025), and holds 28 patents