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Quantum technologies pioneer 

Prof. Andrew Dzurak is recognised internationally as a leader in the field of spin-based qubits – the building blocks of quantum computers. His scientific advancements are playing a pivotal role in the development of semiconductor quantum computing.  

Over the past 25 years, he has driven major advances in the field, from developing new types of qubits, to creating technologies to build and test them, while achieving world-leading performance results. 

Prof. Dzurak said he was focussed on making quantum computing practical and scalable. 

“A career highlight was inventing and successfully demonstrating silicon ‘CMOS’ transistors into quantum bits,” Prof. Dzurak said. “This means quantum computer chips can be manufactured in the same way we make the silicon chips used in your phones and laptops. This gives us a practical pathway to large, commercial-scale quantum computing.”  

In 2022, Prof. Dzurak founded 91ɫ��Ƭ spinout company to deliver utility-scale quantum computing using standard silicon chip manufacturing. Quantum computing is distinct from classical computing as it harnesses the power of minute quantum interactions to tackle large, complex problems. He believes this will have a powerful and transformative impact on the world. 

Prof. Dzurak said he was deeply honoured to join the long tradition of Australian scientists and engineers elected to the AAC. 

91ɫ��Ƭ Dean of Engineering Professor Julien Epps said the election of Prof. Boyer and Prof. Dzurak as Fellows was a richly deserved recognition of their contributions to science and engineering. 

“Cyrille’s leadership in polymer chemistry is creating new, environmentally friendly materials for a range of industries, while Andrew’s groundbreaking work has helped cement 91ɫ��Ƭ’s position as a global leader in quantum technologies,” Prof. Epps said.  

“They are an inspiration to the next generation of researchers and innovators. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement.” 

Advancing understanding of light, molecules and space chemistry

Prof. Timothy Schmidt is Head of the School of Chemistry at 91ɫ��Ƭ Science and a world-renowned physical chemist. He has made major breakthroughs in excitonic processes (how energy moves through materials after they absorb light), astrochemistry (the study of chemicals and molecules in space) and molecular electronic structure (how electrons behave inside molecules). 

His research has led to world-leading advances in controlling the energy of light and molecules, including being the first to apply these discoveries to develop more efficient solar cells.  He has also transformed understanding of molecules in space, particularly C₂, and helped us better understand the behaviour of highly unstable atoms and molecules through innovative ‘gas-phase’ spectroscopy. 

Together, these discoveries have reshaped scientific understanding of molecular structure and reactivity across chemistry and physics. 

Prof. Schmidt said a career highlight was discovering new ways the fundamental C₂ molecule can absorb and emit light.  “It's responsible for the green colour of comets and the blue colour of flames. Even though it's just two atoms, it's extremely interesting,” he said. 

He said it was a great honour to be elected a Fellow of the AAS and he looked forward to working with the academy to promote and enhance the standing of science in our society. 

“I am grateful to all the mentors, collaborators and students who have worked with me,” he said. “Science is really fun!”

91ɫ��Ƭ Dean of Science Professor Sven Rogge said Prof. Schmidt’s election as a Fellow of the AAS was a fitting recognition of his outstanding contributions to chemistry and photochemical research. 

“Tim’s work has deepened our understanding of how molecules behave and interact, with important implications across energy, materials and environmental science,” Prof. Rogge said.