David Reilly- Raising the bar Sydney
Quench your thirst for big ideas
Overview
An honest, hype-free guide to how quantum computers actually work and why they could change almost everything.
Quantum Computing 101
We’ve all heard of quantum computers, the strange, complex, outright weird technological leap some say will change life on earth.
But what's the reality of a computer built to think in that spooky, counterintuitive language of the natural world?
David Reilly spent nearly a decade leading Microsoft's quantum research in Australia before co-founding his own quantum company. He's come up with an accessible version of how these machines actually work, where the technology stands right now, and what it could mean for medicine, encryption, energy, and so much more.
Bio
David Reilly is a professor at the School of Physics and Sydney Nano Institute, and SQA Expert at the University of Sydney. He co-founded Emergence Quantum after nearly a decade leading Microsoft's quantum research in Australia, where he helped set the global benchmark for how quantum systems are built and controlled. A PhD physicist who has held positions at Harvard, UNSW, and the University of Sydney, he's as comfortable talking about cryogenic electronics as he is on a stage. In 2024 he stepped out of the lab to build a company, and he's here to explain why the quantum moment might be closer than you think.
Event
Thursday 7 May, 6:30 – 7:15 PM @Mountain Goat Beer, 435 King St, Newtown NSW 2042
The other talk at this location is Music and community: turning spaces into places at 8:00 – 8:45 PM
Good to Know
Seating:
This event is designed for a mix of both seated and standing audiences. Seating is non-allocated, please arrive early if required.
Accessibility:
Mountain Goat Beer has an accessible entry via a ramp and accessible restrooms.
Raising the bar: 20 free talks, 10 local bars, 1 night.
Raising the bar is presented by the University of Sydney and sponsored by the City of Sydney, Raising the Bar 2026 will transform 10 inner-city bars into spaces of learning for one night only on Thursday May 7.
Featuring 20 free talks from University of Sydney researchers and academics, join us as we explore the new ideas and technologies shaping our world.