$31.9m to explore quantum systems

The Minister for Education and Training, Senator the Hon. Simon Birmingham announced today the latest round of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centres of Excellence scheme. The ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQuS) has been awarded $31.9 million.

This new Centre will harness the research and experience of the existing Centre to develop quantum technologies for Australia in health, environment, economy and security.

Centre Director Professor Andrew White said that the Centre will build sophisticated quantum machines to harness the quantum world for practical applications.

Director White said, “This Centre gives us the opportunity to create the designer quantum materials, quantum engines, and quantum imaging systems at the heart of these machines.

Deputy Director Professor Andrew Doherty of the University of Sydney said the new Centre was an exciting opportunity to build a new generation of quantum engineers.

Deputy Director Doherty said, “We’re most excited by the fact that we will be training a new group of scientists in cutting-edge fundamental research, innovation, and entrepreneurialism.”

The University of Sydney launched Australia’s first hub for nanoscience and quantum technology this year where EQuS Chief Investigators are currently building quantum devices and running quantum simulations.

The new Centre will be administered by the University of Queensland. The other four nodes are located at the University of Sydney, Macquarie University, the University of Western Australia, and the Australian National University.

ENDS

Contact: Professor Andrew White, agx.white@gmail.com, 0466 256 329; Professor Andrew Doherty, andrew.doherty@sydney.edu.au, 0404 903 416; Tara Roberson, Communications, t.roberson@uq.edu.au, 0404 516 635

Major funding support

Australian Research Council

The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past and present.