Silicon Quantum Computing Pioneers Atomic-Precision Chips in Sydney

By Adrian Cole

Silicon Quantum Computing (SQC), under the leadership of Professor Michelle Y. Simmons, is constructing a pioneering quantum chip manufacturing facility in Sydney. The facility is noted for its atomic-precision semiconductor production capabilities, a first in the world.

Founded in 2017, SQC employs a comprehensive materials-science approach, covering everything from atomic-scale processor manufacturing to integrated hardware and software solutions. The company boasts over 200 patents and more than 250 peer-reviewed publications, highlighting its robust research foundation.

In 2022, SQC achieved a significant milestone by developing the world's first integrated quantum-scale circuit, which accurately modeled the quantum states of a small molecule. This breakthrough was supported by the Australian Federal Government's Critical Technologies Fund.

The company was initially established with A$83 million in seed capital from various sources, including UNSW Sydney and major Australian corporations. Recently, the National Reconstruction Fund invested an additional A$60 million to support SQC's ambitious goals.

John Hollister, formerly the CFO at GlobalFoundries, has joined SQC as the new CFO, signaling the company's intent to scale operations. SQC aims to deliver a utility-grade quantum computer within the next decade, with interim product revenues expected before the launch of a fully universal quantum machine by 2033.