FCA members visit Nanoscience Hub at the Sydney University

Words and Photos – Raj Suri and Marie Geissler

28 August 2026

Members of the Foreign Correspondents’ Association (FCA) gathered at the University of Sydney on 28 August 2026 for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look into the world of deep tech and quantum physics at the Sydney Nanoscience Hub.

The visit was an opportunity for the FCA members for a deep dive into how Australian researchers are shaping the next technological revolution.

Professor Stephen Bartlett introduced Sydney Nano and presented a comprehensive overview of the cutting-edge quantum research taking place across the university.

Insights from the Experts and Emerging Talent

To explore the practical, political, and scientific dimensions of quantum technology, there were two back-to-back panel discussions:

Quantum Researcher Panel: Featuring Associate Professor Tingrei Tan, Associate Professor John Bartholomew, and Dr Laura Manenti, the session unpacked breakthrough discoveries, engineering hurdles, and the global stakes of quantum innovation.

Quantum Student Panel: Showcasing the next generation of scientific leaders, students Prachi Nagpal, Aislin Wells, and Rebecca Radebold shared their firsthand experiences working on frontier research and discussed where the field is heading.

Behind the Scenes: Lab Tours & Media Access

Following the discussions, journalists toured two world-class facilities: the Quantum Control Lab, led by Associate Professor Tingrei Tan, and the Emergence Quantum lab, led by Professor David Reilly.

Delegates split into groups to explore the ultra-specialized infrastructure required to harness quantum phenomena, observing high-tech dilution refrigerators and precision lasers up close. Correspondents conducted side interviews with lead researchers, capturing photography and video footage directly from the lab floor.

Connecting over Quantum

The visit wrapped up with a networking lunch, giving FCA members, researchers, and students a chance to continue conversations, build media connections, and debate the future impact of quantum technology on global industries.

(Cover Photo – Raj Suri: FCA members touring the Emergence Lab alongside at the Sydney Nanoscience Hub. )