FLiQC is advancing quantum computing across the full quantum computing stack, from the physical devices that create and control qubits, through the architectures that organise them into reliable systems, to the algorithms that put their power to work on real-world problems.
Our research brings together physicists, mathematicians, computer scientists, and engineers from five leading Australian universities, working in close collaboration with industry and government partners. Together we are tackling the most significant technical obstacles between today’s quantum computers and tomorrow’s transformative applications.
FLiQC’s research is organised into three interconnected capability areas. Each addresses a distinct layer of the quantum computing stack, and each depends on progress in the others. This full-stack, integrated approach is what makes our research uniquely positioned to bridge fundamental science and real-world quantum impact.
Quantum computers are only as useful as the instructions they are given. Developing algorithms that outperform their classical counterparts, and that work on near-term hardware is one of the central challenges in quantum computing today.
FLiQC’s algorithms research targets problems with direct relevance to Australian industry and national priorities. Our researchers develop and assess quantum approaches to optimisation, simulation, and machine learning, with applications spanning defence, transport, logistics, and scientific discovery. From quantum signal processing to quantum-walk-based algorithms for practical use cases, our work is focused on demonstrating real quantum advantage in areas that matter.
Capability Lead: A/Prof. Troy Lee, University of Technology Sydney
Even the most powerful quantum processor is fragile. Errors accumulate, qubits decohere, and the overhead required to correct mistakes at scale remains one of the defining barriers to commercially useful quantum computing.
FLiQC’s architectures research addresses that barrier directly. Our researchers are developing new approaches to fault-tolerant quantum computer design, seeking to reduce the qubit and time overheads that currently make large-scale quantum computation so demanding. This work sits at the interface between theory and engineering, and its progress is essential to closing the gap between today’s quantum prototypes and tomorrow’s quantum industry.
Capability Lead: Prof. Andrew Doherty, University of Sydney
Every quantum computer begins with a qubit. Building qubits that are stable, fast, and scalable, and the control systems needed to operate them precisely, remains one of the most technically demanding frontiers in the field.
FLiQC’s devices research pursues multiple promising qubit technologies, including trapped-ion systems, superconducting circuits, and silicon-based spin qubits. Our researchers develop and test new qubit implementations and quantum control and readout schemes, working directly with industry partners to validate new approaches and accelerate the path to utility-scale quantum computing.
Capability Lead: Dr. Maja Cassidy, University of New South Wales
Research Training
Every research project in the Technical Capabilities program is designed not only to advance the science, but to train the next generation of quantum researchers.
PhD candidates work within multidisciplinary project teams, gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge quantum hardware and simulation tools, and benefit from co-supervision by both academic and industry experts.
Graduates will leave FLiQC with deep technical expertise, a demonstrated research track record, and the practical skills to contribute immediately in academic, industry, or government settings.