Translation at EQUS
From the very beginning, translation was embedded in EQUS’ DNA. It was not an add-on or afterthought, but a core part of the Centre’s mission: world-class discoveries only deliver national capability if paired with deliberate pathways to real-world impact. Recognising this, Prof Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop, with the help of Dr Michael Harvey, directed the Translational Research Program (TRP) and turned that vision into reality.
The program provided researchers with the time, guidance, and resources to explore translational opportunities, bridging the gap between laboratory discovery and technological impact. Its approach was simple but powerful: lower barriers, reduce unnecessary competition, and create a space for experimentation, mentorship, and engagement with industry and policy partners.
Through the Program, EQUS offered:
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Funding & resources: 53 translation grants supporting high-potential ideas.
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Mentoring & guidance: Support from experts to test ideas, uncover intellectual property, and navigate commercialisation pathways.
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Industry & policy engagement: Direct connections with investors, government, and commercial partners.
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Skills development & outreach: Participation in national and international events to build translational experience and networks.
As a result, 113 researchers — from PhD students to senior investigators — participated in the TRP. Several projects went on to become spin-out companies, and, more importantly, translation became a normalised part of EQUS’ culture.
Among the success stories that came out of the translation program are:
- UQ: Analog Quantum Circuits optimising future quantum computing with ultra-compact superconducting circulators
- MQ: Redback Systems aiding cutting-edge quantum technologies with powerful spectroscopic instrumentation
- ANU: Vai Photonics securing navigation with new photonic sensing hardware
- USYD: Iceberg Quantum advancing tomorrow’s quantum computers with improved error correction
- UWA: Jovian Tech enabling the hydrogen economy with purity sensing solutions
Below are selected impact stories and news items, highlighting how early, targeted support unlocked innovation at EQUS.
You can see the full list of funded projects here.
Sharing what worked
We want other Centres to be able to build translation capacity and support their researchers in turning ideas into impact.
“There’s nothing special about quantum. The translation tools and strategies we developed can be adapted to any field.” — Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop, EQUS TRP Director
For the full story, and access to our how-to research translation guide, see:
