A/Prof David Simpson’s July Public Lecture explores how diamond quantum sensing is transforming our understanding of the human body.

As part of the University of Melbourne’s prestigious July Lectures in Physics, a tradition since 1968, Associate Professor David Simpson delivered a compelling talk on Quantum Biotechnology and Quantum Sensing. This lecture was a highlight of the 2025 series, held in celebration of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ 2025), marking 100 years since the birth of quantum mechanics.

In his talk, A/Prof Simpson explored how diamond-based quantum sensors are revolutionising medical technologies. From decoding magnetic signals in brain tissue to detecting iron imbalances in the body, these technologies are not only illuminating biology in new ways, but they’re also laying the groundwork for next-generation medical diagnostics and therapies.

 “Diamond materials are leading a new quantum sensing revolution that is transforming our understanding of the human body,” Simpson explains. “What was once confined to the lab are now becoming the clinical tools of tomorrow.”

This work is part of a broader national effort led by QUBIC, which brings together a multi-disciplinary team of physicists, biologists, chemists, neuroscientists and social scientists to harness quantum technologies for real-world biomedical impact. QUBIC is at the forefront of developing quantum tools to study living systems, with applications ranging from understanding neurodegenerative diseases to cancer detection.

Watch now: Quantum Sensing: The diamond age of quantum biotechnology

The July Lectures in Physics are presented by the University of Melbourne School of Physics. They are a series of free public lectures exploring physics: from the most fundamental questions to its influence in society.