For Australia to maintain its competitive edge across the numerous, high potential emerging technologies, training local talent and connecting them to industry to gain practical experience is critical. With a history steeped in innovation and fostering technological breakthroughs in Australia, CSIRO have launched the Next Generation Graduates Program. 

The Next Generation Graduates Program is a multi-disciplinary graduate training program that aims to equip students with entrepreneurial thinking and skill sets that are key to boost breakthrough innovation. This program is managed by CSIRO and delivers partnerships with industry and universities, with the intention of growing a pipeline of home-grown, job-ready graduates to unlock the immense economic opportunity offered by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies including robotics, cybersecurity, and of course, quantum computing!

In this article, we will hear from Venkatesh (Ven) Chenniappan, CSIRO NextGen recipient currently working at Diraq with Dr Wee Han Lim, Head of Nanofabrication and Dr Fay Hudson, Fabrication and Process Engineer.

“As part of the CSIRO Next Generation Graduates Program, I am excited to embark on a research journey with the potential to revolutionise the future of computing: developing silicon-based quantum bits (qubits) for solid-state quantum computers.

This project, in collaboration with the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and quantum computing company Diraq, represents a unique opportunity to leverage the immense potential of quantum computing and contribute to a rapidly evolving field.

The focus of my research will be on SiMOS quantum dots, which are nanoscale islands of silicon that can trap and manipulate single electrons. This architecture offers several advantages:

1. Compatibility with existing silicon technology: Utilising SiMOS technology allows for seamless integration with established microelectronics infrastructure, leveraging decades of accumulated expertise and potentially accelerating the path to commercialization.
2. Proven research foundation: The UNSW team led by Professor Andrew Dzurak has over 15 years of experience developing and refining SiMOS technology, resulting in a strong foundation for further research.
3. Collaborative environment: Working alongside Diraq, a company founded by Professor Dzurak and holding over 50 patents in the field, provides access to leading experts and invaluable insights from the industry.

Through this project, I aim to develop my theoretical and experimental skills in quantum computing. I will be working alongside experienced researchers and engineers, gaining practical knowledge and expertise in this cutting-edge technology.

Beyond the technical skills, this program provides an invaluable opportunity to build relationships with researchers and industry professionals within the quantum computing ecosystem. This network will be crucial for future collaboration and career advancement in this rapidly growing field.

As a CSIRO Next Gen Graduate, I am driven by the desire to contribute to the advancement of quantum technology and its potential to unlock transformative solutions across various industries. This project aligns perfectly with my aspirations and provides an ideal platform to develop my skills, contribute to a groundbreaking research effort, and pave the way for a future powered by quantum computing.”

Read more about the CSIRO Next Generation Graduates Program here.