MEI ENERGY CONVERSATION - How can Quantum support the Energy Transition?
Description
HYBRID EVENT
The Melbourne Energy Institute (MEI), together with Melbourne Initiative for Quantum Technology (MIQT) are partnering to bring together experts from the University of Melbourne, industry, and government to explore one of the defining technological frontiers of our time - Quantum.
The global energy transition is entering a new phase. As the world races to build cleaner, more resilient, and more secure energy systems, a powerful new technology is emerging with the potential to redefine what is possible: quantum.
Much like artificial intelligence has moved from research labs into boardrooms and business strategy, quantum technologies are rapidly progressing from scientific curiosity to practical capability. The question is no longer whether quantum will influence the energy sector, but where it will create the greatest impact and how quickly organisations can prepare.
From accelerating the discovery of next-generation battery materials and more efficient solar technologies, to optimizing complex energy networks and integrating renewable resources at unprecedented scale, quantum computing offers the potential to solve challenges that remain beyond the reach of today's systems. At the same time, breakthroughs in quantum sensing could transform how we monitor critical infrastructure, improving reliability, efficiency, and resilience across the energy value chain.
Yet with opportunity comes disruption. Quantum technologies will reshape approaches to cybersecurity, creating both new protections and new risks for critical infrastructure. Understanding these shifts today will be essential for leaders seeking to navigate tomorrow's landscape.
Realising this potential will require more than technology. It demands new skills, new partnerships, and a workforce capable of translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world outcomes.
For those seeking to understand what comes next at the intersection of quantum and energy, there has never been a better time to join the conversation.
Schedule:
5:00pm-6:30pm Seminar
6:30pm-7:30pm Networking
SPEAKERS:
Ms. Jenny Bungur, Director of Operations, Infleqtion Australia

Prof. Lloyd Hollenberg, Thomas Baker Professor of Physical Biosciences, School of Physics, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne

Dr. Josh Combes, Senior Lecturer in Quantum Computing, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne

Dr. Farhad Farokhi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, The University of Melbourne
MODERATOR:

Mr. Joseph Dodd, Partnership Development Lead, Quantum Australia
Joseph Dodd is the Partnership Development Lead at Quantum Australia. Joe has over 25 years of experience in innovation, commercialisation, and business development across Australia, the UK, and Asia. With a background in the pharmaceutical industry, Joe spent 10 years at CSIRO and Australia’s Economic Accelerator program, working at the intersection of research commercialisation and industry-research collaboration across a range of high-tech sectors – including quantum technology. At Quantum Australia, Joe leads the national team of Partnership Managers to drive strategic engagement across the ecosystem. Joe plays a key role in shaping national strategy, building strong cross-sector partnerships, and advising on future business models to help grow Australia’s quantum capability and global impact.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed are those of the presenter and do not necessarily reflect the official position of The Melbourne Energy Institute or The University of Melbourne.
The Melbourne Energy Institute welcomes broad discussion. Please engage respectfully and considerately with all perspectives.
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