QUBIC congratulates Scientia Professor Michelle Simmons AC, Advisory Board member, on her appointment as a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) – the nation’s highest civilian honour.

Professor Simmons received the award “for eminent service to quantum physics and nanotechnology research, to atomic-scale engineering, to technology innovation and commercialisation, and to STEM education.”

An internationally recognised leader in atomic‑scale electronics, Professor Simmons has pioneered techniques that allow devices to be engineered with atom‑by‑atom precision in silicon. Her team has achieved a series of world‑firsts: the smallest transistor, the narrowest conducting wires, 3D atomic electronics, and the first two‑qubit gate using atom‑based qubits in silicon. These breakthroughs underpin emerging silicon‑based quantum computers and have positioned Australia as a global trailblazer in quantum technology.

As Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology and Founder & CEO of Silicon Quantum Computing, Professor Simmons has combined fundamental research excellence with a strong commitment to commercialisation and national capability building.

“Professor Simmons’ recognition as a Companion of the Order of Australia is a testament to her vision and leadership in shaping Australia’s quantum future. We are fortunate to have her insight on the QUBIC Advisory Board, where her deep expertise helps guide our mission to translate quantum technologies into real impact for biotechnology, health, and society.”
– Professor Warwick Bowen, Director, QUBIC

Professor Simmons’ appointment as AC highlights not only her scientific leadership, but also her role in shaping a strong, forward‑looking quantum ecosystem in Australia.

QUBIC is honoured to have her expertise and strategic vision informing our mission to advance quantum biotechnology for societal benefit.