The discoveries we’re chasing at the edge of quantum biotechnology are too complex, too ambitious, and too important to be solved from a single viewpoint. We rely on teams that think differently, question assumptions, and bring their own lived experiences into the lab.

Our mission to develop quantum technologies that can reshape health, energy and agriculture asks us to work across boundaries every day. Physics meets biology. Engineering meets medicine. Fundamental science meets real human need. That kind of science thrives when everyone in the room feels safe to contribute, when people from underrepresented backgrounds see a place for themselves here, and when early and mid-career researchers know that their identity is not a barrier but a strength.

As an ARC Centre of Excellence, we aim to demonstrate world‑leading science through a world‑leading culture. We want every student, researcher and collaborator who comes through QUBIC to feel that they belong, that their voice matters, and that they can build a long, rewarding future in STEM.

We know the broader quantum and STEM sectors still face uneven participation across gender, cultural background and socioeconomic status. And we know deeply interdisciplinary fields like quantum biotechnology need a wider range of perspectives to succeed. Our community reflects this commitment, with 50% of members speaking a language other than English at home and 58% of Chief Investigators being women.

That’s why we invest in programs that create genuine opportunity and community. Our Aspire Fellowship, Fostering Inclusive Science Support Scheme, and cross‑disciplinary mentoring initiatives are designed to open doors, build skills and ensure people have the support they need to thrive. Through partnerships like our sponsorship with the National Youth Science Forum, we help connect LGBTQIA+ students and other underrepresented young people with pathways into STEM that might otherwise feel out of reach. These are just some examples of QUBIC’s long‑term commitment to changing who sees themselves in science.

We’re proud of the culture our community is building, together. It’s a culture where our researchers challenge each other, support each other, and grow together. And it’s a culture that strengthens our science every day, shaping the technologies we develop and the impact they will have.

inSTEM: Creating Space Where Everyone Can Thrive

QUBIC was proud to co‑deliver 2025’s annual inSTEM Conference in Melbourne. inSTEM brings together members from ARC Centres of Excellence who are committed to building research environments where marginalised and underrepresented people can thrive, and where all researchers are supported to become more capable and active allies.

The program offered deep, practical insight into the lived experiences of diverse STEM researchers. The panel on exploring trans, gender‑diverse, and gender‑fluid experiences in the workplace, shared honest reflections on navigating academia through the lens of gender identity. These discussions provided valuable, actionable guidance for research leaders and colleagues committed to improving safety, respect and belonging.

“inSTEM was absolutely outstanding. Panellists, speakers and focus groups really brought home ‘diversity is a fact, inclusion is a choice,’ with methods, tips and strategies to make your research lab a welcoming place for all people.” – Emma De Costa, QUBIC PhD candidate, University of Wollongong

An extract from the 2025 QUBIC Annual Report. Read the full report here.