Silicon Quantum Computing (SQC) is an Australian quantum technology company founded in May 2017 to commercialize UNSW Sydney’s world-leading quantum computing research. It launched as Australia’s first dedicated quantum computing company, backed by A$83 million in initial funding from a coalition of investors including the Australian Commonwealth Government, UNSW, Telstra, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, and the New South Wales state government. SQC’s mission is to develop a revolutionary silicon-based quantum computer and use it for the betterment of humankind – creating technology at the cutting edge of science and applying it in “life enhancing, human-centred and world changing” ways.
The company’s roots lie in over two decades of groundbreaking research at UNSW’s Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology (CQC2T). This research team, led by Professor Michelle Simmons, achieved several world-firsts in silicon quantum electronics – including the creation of the first single-atom transistor and the world’s narrowest conducting silicon wires, as well as the first two-qubit logic gate in silicon. These achievements formed the foundation of SQC’s intellectual property and set the stage for its mission to build a commercial quantum computer. In May 2017, SQC was officially launched, marking a key milestone where cutting-edge academic science began its translation into a startup venture.
Since its founding, SQC has systematically delivered on key technical milestones. The company assembled a world-class lab in Sydney and by 2022 announced the world’s first integrated quantum circuit at the atomic scale, accomplished ahead of schedule. This breakthrough involved integrating multiple donor-atom qubits within a single device and using it to accurately model the quantum states of a complex organic molecule (polyacetylene), definitively validating SQC’s technology for quantum chemical modeling. SQC’s focus on atomic precision paid off – as CEO Michelle Simmons noted, the “exquisite precision of the device” confirmed the company’s strategy to prioritize quality over quantity in qubits, and this achievement was “a huge step towards building a commercial quantum computer”. Reaching this landmark two years earlier than expected bolstered SQC’s reputation for execution and innovation.
Building on this momentum, SQC closed a A$50.4 million Series A funding round in mid-2023 to fuel its ongoing quest to manufacture the world’s first scalable, error-corrected quantum computer. The company’s strategic roadmap outlines clear objectives for the coming years: by 2028, SQC aims to deliver a 100-qubit quantum processor incorporating quantum error correction, and by 2030, to deploy a fully error-corrected, universal quantum computer accessible to a broad range of users and use cases. These goals underscore SQC’s forward-looking vision of making quantum computing practically accessible. SQC’s recent progress has also garnered international attention – for instance, in April 2025 the company was awarded a contract under DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative to help rigorously evaluate quantum advantage. In summary, SQC’s history from 2017 to today is one of rapid advancement: from a bold startup spin-out to a proven pioneer hitting world-first milestones on the path to scalable quantum computing.
Key Executives and Leadership
SQC is led by Professor Michelle Simmons, a globally renowned quantum physicist and 2018 Australian of the Year. As CEO and founder, she drives the company’s bold vision of building the world’s first silicon-based quantum computer. Joining her is Simon Segars, former CEO of Arm Holdings, now Chair of the Board, bringing deep semiconductor industry expertise. The leadership team blends world-class science with startup grit, featuring executives like COO Brett Freeman and VP of Corporate Development Matthew Bradley, both seasoned in deep-tech scaling and commercialization. The board also includes leaders from Telstra, Commonwealth Bank, and UNSW, creating a powerhouse of academic, technical, and business insight.
Services and Offerings
Silicon Quantum Computing’s core offering is its groundbreaking quantum computing technology, centered on atomically engineered silicon processors. SQC is the only company in the world that can manufacture quantum devices in silicon with atomic precision – literally building quantum chips atom-by-atom. By placing individual phosphorus atoms in silicon to serve as qubits, SQC achieves an unprecedented level of control over its quantum hardware. This unique capability yields qubits of exceptionally high quality (stability and fidelity). In fact, SQC has demonstrated world-leading performance on benchmark algorithms: for example, the team ran Grover’s search algorithm on one of its prototype quantum processors and achieved near-perfect accuracy (approximately 98–99% of the algorithm’s theoretical maximum) without any error correction. Such a result is far above what other quantum platforms have attained, underscoring the advantage of SQC’s approach. By focusing on making each qubit as pristine and reliable as possible, SQC can perform complex operations with minimal errors – a crucial edge in the race to useful quantum computing.
To deliver a functional quantum computer, SQC is developing a full-stack system in-house, not just the quantum chip itself. This means SQC’s R&D spans everything from the nanofabrication of qubit devices and cryogenic hardware to the control electronics and software needed to operate a quantum computer. The company explicitly aims to build the entire apparatus required for a “useful and manufacturable quantum device”. By vertically integrating the quantum processor with its control stack, SQC can ensure all components work seamlessly together. This full-stack capability will allow SQC to eventually offer end-users a turn-key quantum computing service, rather than just a chip.
At present, SQC’s focus is on research & development and proprietary technology rather than selling a commercial product. The company’s “product” is essentially its evolving quantum processors and the intellectual property around them. However, SQC is actively engaging with partners to explore early applications of its technology. Its consortium of shareholders provides ready collaborators in different sectors – for instance, the Commonwealth Bank (CBA) is working with SQC on proof-of-concept use cases in finance that could leverage quantum algorithms for complex problem-solving. Similarly, Telstra (another investor) is interested in quantum computing for telecommunications and cybersecurity use cases. These collaborations allow SQC to align its R&D with real-world needs and tailor its offerings to what end-users will require. We can expect that as SQC’s hardware matures (scaling from its current few-qubit prototypes towards tens and eventually hundreds of qubits), the company will start offering access to its quantum processors to select partners, likely via cloud-based quantum computing services or bespoke projects.
In terms of innovations and services to date, SQC’s achievements themselves demonstrate what the company can “offer.” The 2022 atomic-scale quantum integrated circuit, for example, showed that SQC’s technology can simulate the electronic structure of molecules with high accuracy. This points toward services in quantum chemistry and materials design – SQC’s future quantum computers could be used by pharmaceutical companies to model drug molecules, or by materials scientists to discover new materials, as highlighted by Prof. Simmons during that breakthrough announcement. Additionally, SQC’s platform being silicon-based gives it a practical edge: it is built on the same material that today’s semiconductor industry uses. As one industry partner noted, this means SQC’s approach could integrate more easily with existing manufacturing and has a “significant competitive advantage” in scaling up.
Looking forward, SQC’s service model will likely involve providing quantum computing power as a service (QCaaS) once the machines are capable enough. By 2028, SQC expects to have a multi-qubit processor (on the order of 100 qubits) with basic error correction, which could start performing specialized high-value computations for clients (in finance, optimization, cryptography, etc.). By 2030, with a fully error-corrected quantum computer online, SQC could offer more general cloud access to its quantum computing resources for enterprises and researchers globally. In preparation for this, SQC is already engaging with government and defense – evidenced by its 2025 DARPA contract to benchmark quantum solutions – which shows that SQC might also offer its technology for national-scale computing challenges and standards development.
In summary, while SQC does not yet sell a device or cloud service, it offers something arguably more enticing to prospective talent and partners: a front-row seat to the creation of a new computing paradigm. Its “offerings” are its cutting-edge silicon quantum chips, its IP portfolio of quantum manufacturing techniques, and its expertise in leveraging those to solve problems thought intractable. As SQC hits future milestones, it will transition these into concrete services – delivering quantum computing power and solutions to those who need computational capabilities far beyond what classical computers can do.
Office Locations and Size
SQC is headquartered in Sydney, Australia, on the UNSW campus where its research began. The team of 80+ employees works in state-of-the-art labs and offices that support everything from atomic-scale fabrication to quantum software. While it operates from a single location today, its impact is global—with partnerships across academia, government, and industry. SQC’s compact size fuels tight collaboration, fast iteration, and a vibrant, mission-driven culture.
This headcount includes a high concentration of PhD-level scientists and engineers, reflecting the deep technical nature of the work. SQC’s employees are often described as “world-class” and come from top institutions around the world. In fact, the team is remarkably international for a startup of its size – members have been hand-picked from across the globe.
With ~80+ employees, SQC sits at a size where it’s large enough to have dedicated teams (for example, device fabrication team, qubit measurement team, software/algorithm team, etc.) but small enough that everyone still knows each other. The company is expected to continue growing in the coming years, especially as it ramps up engineering efforts toward the 100-qubit goal. Its organizational structure is relatively flat, common for a startup – aside from the executive leadership, much of the team consists of research scientists, engineers, and technical staff who collaborate across projects.
For now, Sydney remains the sole hub of SQC’s activities. The choice of Sydney is strategic: it builds on the quantum ecosystem around UNSW and other Australian research institutions, and it benefits from strong government support (Australia has national initiatives to foster quantum technology). Prospective employees would be joining SQC at its Sydney HQ, working on-site with cutting-edge laboratory equipment and enjoying the lifestyle that Sydney offers. (The company often touts Sydney’s quality of life in its job postings, knowing it’s a draw for global talent.) In the future, if SQC continues its growth trajectory, it might establish additional offices or satellite locations (for example, a commercial office in another tech hub, or dedicated facilities for manufacturing).
Hiring
SQC is in an expansion mode and is actively recruiting top talent to join its mission of building the first silicon quantum computer. The company’s hiring needs span a range of specialties, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of quantum computing. Current job openings cover roles in quantum hardware, software/algorithms, and supporting functions. For example, SQC has recently listed positions such as Quantum Machine Learning Scientist, Quantum (Atomic) Fabrication Scientist, Senior Machine Learning Specialist, and Hardware Technician in its Sydney team. These roles give a sense of the breadth: a Quantum Machine Learning Scientist would focus on developing algorithms and possibly integrating quantum processors with machine learning methods, whereas an Atomic Fabrication Scientist works on the nanotechnology side (using tools like scanning probe microscopes to place atoms in devices). A Hardware Technician, by contrast, supports the laboratory infrastructure – building and maintaining cryogenic setups, wiring up control electronics, etc., to keep experiments running. In addition, SQC is hiring in more classical areas: for instance, a Senior Machine Learning Specialist (likely to apply classical ML expertise to help design or optimize experiments and analyze data), and even a Science Communications Officer to help translate the team’s scientific progress into publications and public content. This mix of roles shows that SQC values not just quantum physicists but also engineers, software developers, technicians, and communicators.
SQC’s ties to academia are evident in its hiring as well. The company offers PhD scholarships and postdoctoral positions in collaboration with UNSW, encouraging emerging researchers to work on topics like quantum-enhanced machine learning and quantum chemistry simulations using SQC’s processors. This indicates that SQC sees nurturing talent as part of its mission. Students and early-career researchers can join SQC’s projects, which helps build a pipeline of skilled individuals who may become full-time employees. For experienced hires, SQC often looks for advanced degrees (many roles list a Master’s or PhD as preferred) and specialized experience in areas such as quantum physics, nanofabrication, cryogenics, computer science (especially quantum algorithms), or microelectronics. However, the company also has opportunities on the business side – for example, people with backgrounds in technology commercialization, project management, or intellectual property can find roles at SQC (as evidenced by roles like Corporate Development VP and IP Counsel on the team).
What SQC looks for in candidates: Above all, SQC seeks individuals with exceptional expertise in their field and a passion for innovation. The careers page explicitly states that to achieve its goals, SQC needs “dedicated team members with proven expertise, valuable experience and a mindset that pushes beyond standard conventions”. In other words, they hire people who are not only technically skilled but also creative thinkers unafraid to chart new territory. The company encourages applicants who “have the passion, vision and determination” to join the team. SQC’s hiring philosophy is to find mission-driven people – one internal slogan is that the goal is always to hire “the very best people” for each role. This means the bar is high: candidates are often leaders in their previous environments (top of their PhD program, or the go-to expert in a specialized skill).
During the hiring process, SQC likely evaluates both technical competency and cultural fit. On the technical side, a quantum engineer or scientist might be asked about their research experience, publications, and specific techniques they’ve mastered (e.g. lithography, coding quantum algorithms, operating dilution refrigerators). On the cultural side, SQC values teamwork and adaptability. As a startup, things move quickly and roles can evolve; someone who is flexible and eager to wear multiple hats will thrive. The work environment is highly collaborative and multidisciplinary, so an ability to communicate across fields (for instance, a physicist working well with software engineers) is important. SQC also prides itself on its inclusive and diverse atmosphere, so they look for candidates who will contribute positively to that environment. In fact, the company explicitly states in job descriptions that it fosters a “collaborative and inclusive environment” and is “dedicated to building a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of background.” – indicating that they value diversity in hiring.
For international candidates, SQC is quite welcoming. The company is open to relocating talent to Sydney and even promotes the lifestyle benefit: one job listing entices candidates to “enjoy the sunny shores and stunning scenery of Sydney, Australia” as part of the opportunity. This friendly tone suggests that SQC understands many applicants may be moving from overseas and that it positions itself as a globally attractive workplace. English is the working language and being in Australia means there’s strong support for things like work visas for specialized talent (especially given government backing of quantum tech).
In summary, SQC hires driven, high-caliber individuals who are excited by the challenge of building a quantum computer from scratch. Whether your expertise is in quantum physics, engineering, software, or a supporting field, SQC looks for a track record of excellence and a clear enthusiasm for the mission. The company rewards that with the chance to work on one of the most cutting-edge projects in the world, alongside a team of similarly top-notch colleagues. For prospective talent, joining SQC means becoming part of an elite group that is literally making history in computing.
Culture
SQC’s company culture can be described as cutting-edge, collaborative, and empowering. Even at the forefront of science, the team emphasizes the human element – a shared sense of purpose and passion. SQC prides itself on what it calls a “unique collaborative and competitive spirit” within its ranks. This might sound paradoxical at first, but it means that while team members collaborate closely, they also challenge each other to excel, creating a healthy drive for innovation. There’s a relentlessly curious mindset that permeates the company, where questioning convention is encouraged and “striving for brilliance” is the norm. In practice, this looks like lively brainstorming meetings, open discussions where even junior researchers can suggest bold ideas, and a willingness to experiment and learn from failure. The ambience is similar to a top-tier research lab – intellectually intense and focused – but balanced by the agility and excitement of a tech startup. Everyone is aware that they’re attempting something groundbreaking, which brings a certain energy to the workplace.
Despite the lofty goals and hard work, the atmosphere at SQC is described as supportive, fun, and meritocratic. Prof. Michelle Simmons has cultivated an environment where people love what they do. “Having such a genuine and highly skilled group working together across the company is not only outstanding but great fun,” she says, emphasizing that at SQC, individuals are valued for their contributions above all else. “At SQC we value people on their work ethics and talent, not their gender,” Simmons further notes. This ethos of meritocracy and inclusion is deeply ingrained. SQC has made a point to build a diverse team – the company has many women in technical roles and celebrates their achievements. On International Women’s Day 2025, SQC highlighted that its female scientists and engineers (from various cultural backgrounds) are integral to the company’s success. Team members hail from at least nine different countries spanning several continents, creating a truly multicultural workplace. New employees often find this diversity refreshing; it’s common to hear a mix of accents in the office and to learn about different perspectives and traditions. What unites everyone is a strong work ethic and a love for solving hard problems.
Another aspect of SQC’s culture is its commitment to continuous learning and growth. Because the field of quantum computing is evolving rapidly, the company encourages employees to keep learning new skills and knowledge. There are internal talks (for example, researchers might present the latest scientific papers at lab meetings), opportunities to attend conferences and training, and mentorship from senior experts. SQC explicitly promotes an environment where “innovation and continuous learning are encouraged”. This means that if you join SQC, you’re not expected to know everything on day one – but you are expected to be eager to learn and to stay curious. Many team members come from academic backgrounds, and SQC maintains a bit of an academic vibe in terms of valuing discovery and knowledge-sharing (while also moving with startup speed). The company’s modest size also means individuals can take on responsibilities that might be siloed in larger organizations, which accelerates learning. For instance, a quantum engineer at SQC might not only design qubits but also get involved in software or interact with industry partners, broadening their experience.
Work-life balance at a startup like SQC can be challenging given the ambitious goals, but the company tries to make the work environment enjoyable and flexible. The phrase “great fun” pops up in descriptions of team life. Achievements, big and small, are celebrated – whether it’s a paper accepted to a journal, a successful experiment, or hitting a funding milestone. There is a strong sense of camaraderie; employees often use words like “family” to describe the team. SQC leadership actively acknowledges the team’s efforts. Prof. Simmons has stated that the “secret to SQC’s success lies not only in our unparalleled technology, but also in the calibre of world-class people that make up our team”. This sentiment is reflected day-to-day: management involves the technical teams in decision-making and respects their expertise. The relatively flat hierarchy means even junior staff can have direct conversations with the CEO or ask questions in group meetings. People take pride in each other’s accomplishments.
Inclusivity is another cornerstone of SQC culture. The company is explicit about welcoming all backgrounds, and this isn’t just lip service – the diversity of the team is a testament to it. New hires from overseas, for example, are helped to settle in (Sydney’s friendly and multicultural vibe helps too). There’s an understanding that innovation thrives when you have varied perspectives at the table. SQC employees have shared motivational quotes and values publicly; one team member quoted “Empowered women empower the world, for when she rises, she lifts others with her,” indicating the uplifting mindset among colleagues. The culture encourages mutual support: senior scientists mentor juniors, engineers and physicists learn from each other, and successes are shared collectively.
Finally, it’s worth noting that working at SQC carries a sense of purpose that is a huge motivator in the culture. Everyone at SQC knows they are working on technology that could profoundly change computing and society. This common mission – to achieve something that’s never been done – creates a bond and a perseverance through difficult challenges. It’s not uncommon for experiments to run into obstacles (quantum computing is hard!), but the team’s spirit is to troubleshoot together and keep pushing. There’s a startup slogan that could apply: “fail fast, learn faster”. SQC’s team embodies this, treating setbacks as learning opportunities on the way to eventual success. And when breakthroughs happen, there’s a shared celebration in knowing they’re making history.
SQC offers a culture that is intellectually stimulating, inclusive, and energizing. For a prospective employee or team member, this means you’ll be surrounded by brilliant, passionate colleagues in an environment that challenges you to do your best work, while also supporting you as part of a close-knit team. The work will be demanding, but you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re contributing to something truly meaningful – the dawn of the quantum computing era – and having some fun as you do so. As SQC itself states, it is “focused on making quantum computers a reality” in a modern, forward-looking way, and it’s building a team culture to match that bold objective.
Join the Quantum Revolution: SQC’s tagline for prospective hires is “Become entangled with us” – a playful quantum pun inviting you to be a part of this pioneering journey. For those who thrive on innovation, collaboration, and big challenges, Silicon Quantum Computing offers an inspiring and rewarding place to build the future.