Quantinuum will provide The University of Western Australia affiliated researchers, students and entrepreneurs with cloud access to Helios, reported as the world’s most accurate commercial quantum computer. The collaboration focuses on developing quantum applications for critical minerals, energy, agriculture and healthcare, sectors vital to Australia’s economy.
“Australia has set an ambitious vision for quantum, and it is making meaningful progress,” said Dr. Marvin Lee, Country Leader at Quantinuum. The organizations will also explore opportunities to expand UWA’s Quantum and AI research ecosystem through a university-wide quantum computing applications centre that would bring together academic, industry and government stakeholders to identify and develop high-value use cases in critical sectors for Australia’s economy, including critical minerals, energy, agriculture and healthcare.
Quantinuum and UWA Expand Quantum Access for Australian Researchers
Quantinuum’s programs, including Q-Net and the Startup Partner Program, will offer training opportunities and facilitate collaboration within the global quantum ecosystem. Experts from Quantinuum will work alongside UWA researchers to evaluate potential applications, establish performance benchmarks, and integrate quantum computing with existing artificial intelligence and high-performance computing workflows. Professor Jingbo Wang, founder and Director of UWA’s Research Centre for Quantum Information, Simulation and Algorithm (QUISA), emphasized that the partnership builds upon UWA’s existing strengths in quantum computing research.
“Through co-design with potential end users and quantum computing hardware providers, this initiative will create new opportunities for UWA researchers, students and industry partners, while strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration across the University,” Professor Wang said. The collaboration aims to address a critical need for skilled quantum professionals in Australia by providing hands-on experience with advanced quantum technologies, and seeks to create new pathways for student internships and workforce training initiatives.
Developing talent is essential for realizing Australia’s ambitious quantum vision, a point highlighted by Dr. Marvin Lee, Country Leader at Quantinuum. Lee said, “Together, we’re bringing our full suite of capabilities, from world-leading hardware and software to application expertise and ecosystem programs, to develop practical quantum applications and hybrid workflows that will prepare Australia for the quantum era and support the nation’s future prosperity.” Petra Andrén, CEO of Quantum Australia, highlighted the importance of access to leading quantum technologies for Australian researchers and companies.
“Access to leading quantum technologies helps Australian researchers, students and companies build capability and understand where quantum can deliver real value,” said Andrén. “Collaborations like this create opportunities to develop skills, test applications and connect research with industry challenges.” The partnership between Quantinuum and UWA reflects a shared commitment to translating quantum research into tangible economic and societal benefits for Australia.
Through co-design with potential end users and quantum computing hardware providers, this initiative will create new opportunities for UWA researchers, students and industry partners, while strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration across the University.
Professor Jingbo Wang, founder and Director of UWA’s Research Centre for Quantum Information, Simulation and Algorithm (QUISA)
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