About

Mission statement

The Melbourne Initiative for Quantum Technology (MIQT) unites quantum researchers across the University of Melbourne’s faculties and schools to build a connected, visible, and collaborative community in quantum science and technology. Our mission is to foster interdisciplinary engagement, coordinate a unified voice when engaging with university leadership and external stakeholders, and elevate the visibility and impact of quantum research at the University.

By creating a shared identity for the quantum community at Melbourne, MIQT strengthens the university’s position in national and international quantum research and innovation. We achieve this through a range of initiatives, including a monthly seminar series, annual retreats and workshops, collaborative events with industry and government, and the MIQT Quantum Science Prize recognising student excellence. MIQT also supports strategic planning for major funding opportunities, research translation, and the development of undergraduate and postgraduate education in quantum science.

Acting as a natural point of contact for quantum activity at the University of Melbourne, MIQT provides a platform for coordinated action, supports new collaborations, and advocates for the growth and future of quantum research and education.

Background and history

The Melbourne Initiative for Quantum Technology (MIQT) was born from a shared vision to build a more connected and visible quantum research community at the University of Melbourne. Originally proposed in 2023 as a Hallmark Research Initiative under the leadership of Stephan Rachel and Kim-Anh Lê Cao, the application was ultimately unsuccessful. However, rather than letting the idea fade, the founding team—Stephan Rachel, Kim-Anh Lê Cao, Lloyd Hollenberg, and Lucas Hackl—chose to pursue the vision from the ground up.

Throughout 2024, the team worked to build momentum by engaging with researchers across the university, initiating conversations with university leadership, and coordinating with key stakeholders including the communications team and faculty representatives. A significant early milestone was the launch of the Quantum Seminar Series, initiated and chaired by Stephan Rachel, which brought together researchers from different faculties to present and discuss their work in an accessible and interdisciplinary setting.

With support from the Faculty of Science, the first Melbourne Quantum Retreat was held at the Melbourne Zoo in February 2025, co-organized by Stephan Rachel and Lucas Hackl. The two-day event brought together researchers from across the university, with the first day focused on scientific presentations and community building, and the second day dedicated to strategy and planning. The retreat laid the foundation for the official formation of MIQT as a university-wide initiative.

Following the retreat, MIQT was formally established with two governance structures: an Executive Committee to drive activities and coordination, and an Advisory Committee to provide strategic guidance and connect the initiative with relevant stakeholders. In mid-2025, MIQT launched its official website, rebranded the seminar series as the MIQT Seminar Series, and introduced the MIQT Quantum Science Prize—supported by the Laby Foundation—to recognise student excellence and encourage cross-disciplinary engagement.

From these grassroots beginnings, MIQT has evolved into a vibrant platform for quantum research collaboration, advocacy, and community building at the University of Melbourne.

Initiative leadership

Executive committee

  • Professor Stephan Rachel (Chair)
  • Dr Marcus Giansiracusa
  • Dr Farhad Farokhi
  • Dr Lucas Hackl
  • Professor Udaya Parampalli
  • Dr Thomas Quella
  • Dr Christine Rizkallah
  • Suzy Ryan
  • Dr Alexander Wood
  • Dr Nitin Yadav

Advisory committee

  • Professor Kim-Anh Lê Cao (Co-Chair)
  • Associate Professor David Simpson (Co-Chair)
  • Professor Marta Garrido
  • Professor Lloyd Hollenberg
  • Professor David Jamieson
  • Dr Nicole Jenkins
  • Professor Carsten Murawski
  • Professor Adrian Pearce
  • Rachel Ramsdale
  • Professor Richard Sandberg
  • Professor Kate Smith-Miles
  • Dr Andrew Woolnough