Meet the team

Mike is the Director of the Quantum Technologies and Dark Matter Research Lab at the University of Western Australia. He has undertaken groundbreaking research and development, including precise measurement instruments using sapphires, which led to a successful spin out company acquired by Raytheon. Mike holds multiple patents and has received numerous awards, showcasing significant contributions to both science and industry.

Jeremy is an experimental physicist from the University of Western Australia who embraces the opportunity to combine fundamental and applied research, finding practical applications with real-world benefits. He is actively working to commercialise several innovations discovered while searching for dark matter, including a breakthrough device with the potential to disrupt industries from medical manufacturing to telecommunications.

Jacinda is a theoretical physicist at the University of Queensland. She uses advanced mathematical methods to explore how atoms behave, testing theories that could explain new physics beyond our current understanding. Jacinda's work supports large-scale projects like the ones conducted at the Large Hadron Collider. She has received notable awards and leads efforts to push the boundaries of physics, making significant contributions to the scientific community and beyond.

Based at Griffith University, Nora explores how quantum physics differs from classical physics and how these differences can be used for future technologies. For example, quantum correlations and non-locality, and developing techniques to create high-quality quantum light states. Her research has led to significant breakthroughs, such as demonstrating unique quantum behaviors and improving quantum memory systems. Nora's work is pivotal in advancing quantum information science and its practical applications.

Arkady leads a research group at the University of Queensland, studying quantum phenomena using superconducting devices. His work involves creating and experimenting with tiny circuits that can perform quantum computing tasks. His research aims to develop new quantum technologies that could revolutionise computing and communication. With experience from leading institutions in the US, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his groundbreaking work in quantum science.

Sally combines her expertise in physics and medicine to develop new technologies for health applications. She focuses on Quantum Machine Learning and Quantum Causal Modelling, aiming to understand and utilise quantum information processing. Sally's research helps to uncover new ways to analyse data and improve healthcare technologies, bridging the gap between theoretical physics and practical medical solutions.

As the Director of the Nanotechnology Facility at Swinburne University, Saulius is an expert in using light to manipulate tiny materials for various applications. His research includes developing 3D laser printing techniques with nano-scale precision, which can be used in micro-optics and sensors. He also works on creating nano-textured surfaces for enhanced sensing and energy conversion. With over 700 publications, Professor Juodkazis is a leader in applying advanced optical technologies to real-world problems.

Ben Buchler at the Australian National University specialises in quantum and nano-optics. He works on developing new ways to store and manipulate light using quantum memory, which can improve the performance of quantum systems. His research also involves using machine learning to enhance these technologies. Buchler's work is crucial for advancing quantum computing and communication, and he has been recognized with prestigious fellowships and awards for his contributions to science.

Professor Andrew White, Director of the Centre for Engineered Quantum Systems, is a prominent researcher in quantum information and quantum optics. His work explores the strange behaviors of quantum particles and how these can be used to develop new technologies. With a diverse background in chemistry, physics, and quantum mechanics, White leads a nationwide effort to create practical quantum machines, aiming to harness quantum properties for technological advancements.

Michael is a serial deep-tech entrepreneur who has co-founded companies including Jovian Tech and XeroCoat. As Head of Research Translation at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems, he works to turn scientific research into commercial products. With a background in optics and materials science, Michael leads efforts to identify promising technologies and guide them towards commercialisation, working closely with researchers, industry partners, and investors to bring innovative solutions to market.

Jo works at the University of Western Australia to develop programs, prototypes, and partnerships to support innovation and entrepreneurship. With over 20 years of experience in strategy, management, and commercialisation, Jo bridges the gap between startups, corporations, universities, and government, helping them understand each other's perspectives. An award-winning writer and public speaker, Jo was recognised as one of Western Australia’s 40under40 business leaders in 2021.

Kate McKenzie is an MBA qualified relationship manager with more than 20 years of experience in creating partnerships across a broad range of industries. She leads the Major Research Initiatives team at the University of Western Australia. With a strong background in international business and supply chain management, she supports complex, multi-partner initiatives like Cooperative Research Centres, ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hubs and Training Centres. Kate’s work focuses on fostering collaboration between academia and industry, helping to deliver transformational research outcomes that address real-world challenges.