International Women’s Day: recognising the women of Diraq
* Details of those pictured are listed below.
To mark International Women’s Day, we are sharing insights from the talented women across Diraq on why they chose to build their careers in quantum. Developing utility-scale quantum systems is one of the most complex technological challenges today, and the world-class scientists, engineers, and specialists are at the core of this effort.
Below, members of our team share what drew them to the field and how they are contributing to Diraq’s mission. These perspectives highlight the breadth of expertise involved in translating scientific research into practical technologies, as we work together to deliver the next era of high-performance computing.
Abi Klopper, Technical Communications Strategist
I’d been watching Australia’s quantum tech industry bloom from afar for years before I joined Diraq — it was one of the best stories I watched unfold while working at Nature magazine in London. Coming home to it was super exciting, especially as the field really started to gain momentum. And Diraq was the obvious landing place: a world‑class Australian team with its sights set on a practical future for quantum computing. It’s really gratifying to have the opportunity to work alongside our remarkable engineers to bring our quantum computers to the world.
Yael Wainmann, Systems Engineer Manager
With a background in mathematics and physics and nearly two decades of experience in R&D across the aerospace, medical‑device and Quantum industries, I’ve always been driven by curiosity and a passion for solving complex problems. Today, as a senior systems engineer in Diraq, a high‑technology environment, I feel most energized when I’m close to cutting‑edge research and innovation. I thrive when I’m surrounded by talented, creative people, and I’m proud to be part of an industry where women continue to push boundaries and shape the future of technology.
Hieu Van, PhD student
I’m a PhD candidate in Electrical Engineering, working on silicon-based quantum devices. My research focuses on developing scalable architectures for quantum processors. Working in quantum technology has been both challenging and exciting - I’m inspired to be part of a field that brings together physics and engineering while contributing to a more diverse and inclusive tech community
Rosalie Nardo, Graduate Engineer
I am a first year PhD student studying quantum error correction! I have discovered a passion for physics in high school and when choosing between doing an undergraduate physics or engineering degree I found a perfect mix in the UNSW quantum engineering degree. I have loved working in a field at the forefront of technology and engaging with the exciting and bizarre aspects of quantum every day.
Sophia Wolczak, Cryo Lab Support Engineer
I've always had a problem solving and fastidious mindset with an interest in physics and maths - making me a natural fit for engineering. Quantum stood out as what seemed like an impossible challenge, which is exactly why I ran towards it and picked it as my major straight out of school. As part of my bachelors thesis, I conducted experiments and worked on cryostats that allowed me see the theories in practice, while applying engineering skills to the lab. This kept me curious and excited for the emerging field and led to my role at Diraq, where I'm lucky enough to blend electrical, mechanical and scientific ideas to allow for the environment needed to prove the impossible is actually achievable! Being at the forefront of this transition while continually tackling new challenges keeps me motivated.
Alex Dickie, IC Test Engineer
I got into Quantum because I was very excited on being on the cutting edge of science and technology! I love designing and creating things - as well as challenging problems. What problem could be more novel and challenging than building a quantum computer?
Gauri Goenka, PhD Student
I work on silicon quantum dots coupled to nuclear spins, exploring pathways to harness the potential of nuclear spin to realise quantum computing in Silicon Metal-Oxide semiconductor devices, to achieve longer coherence times, as well as to realise “Qubits”.
I love working in quantum tech because it sits at the intersection of physics, engineering, and computation — every day feels like solving a beautiful puzzle. The field constantly challenges me to think deeply, experiment boldly, and collaborate across disciplines.
*Pictured from left to right: Miranda Drinkwater (Operations Lead), Salma Hamad (Head of Information Security), Abi Klopper (Technical Communications Strategist), Georgia Dempsey (Head of Communications & Public Affairs), Lucija Grba (PhD Student) , Fay Hudson (Technical Information Manager), Mel Kramer (People & Culture Manager), Nazia Shariff (People & Culture Specialist), Yael Wainmann (Systems Engineer Manager), Niki Virdee (Technical Project Manager), Alicia Lieng (PhD Student), Rosalie Nardo (Graduate Engineer), Francesca Elliott (Marketing Specialist), Stef Tardo (Chief Operating Officer), Sueshe Tun (Financial Accountant), Lara Wilkinson (Chief of Staff), Sophia Wolzcak (Cryo Lab Support Engineer), Gauri Goenka (PhD Student)