Australian government grants $4.6 million for Quantum Ph.D candidates

The Department of Industry Science and Resources has allocated $4.6 million in grants to fund up to 20 PhDs in quantum technology.

The Australian Quantum Graduates Program will award $3.6 million to CSIRO to fund the candidates. A further $1 million will be awarded to Sydney Quantum Academy through the National Quantum Collaboration Initiative.

Announcing the grants, Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic said, “The graduates program grant to CSIRO will help attract and train our nation’s next generation of quantum technology specialists”.

This funding will help grow Australia’s quantum industry capability through education and research.

Minister Husic said “Australia is at the forefront of research and development in quantum technology, contributing to breakthroughs for more than two decades.

“Our capability is reflected across 22 quantum-related institutions that have nurtured internationally sought-after talent. We have eight universities performing well above the international standard in quantum physics research.

“But we need to build upon that. This includes offering Australians education opportunities in quantum so that we develop a pipeline of talent. This will be fundamental to deliver the 16,000 quantum-related jobs projected by 2040.

“Our efforts in quantum also need to be coordinated across the nation, with researchers, industry and government working together to reap the economic and social benefits.”