Dr Isa Ahmadalidokht joins the Sydney Quantum Academy Experts Network

The Sydney Quantum Academy (SQA) is pleased to welcome Dr Isa Ahmadalidokht to the SQA Experts Network.

Dr Ahmadalidokht is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and a Fellow with the ARC Centre of Excellence for Quantum Biotechnology (QUBIC). His research explores how quantum imaging and sensing could be used to develop practical tools for studying biological tissue.

What can quantum imaging reveal?

Conventional imaging techniques provide valuable information about the human body, but some chemical and structural changes in biological tissue can be difficult to detect.

“By using quantum light, we aim to create non-invasive imaging tools that provide richer information about tissue structure and chemistry,” he said.

By detecting subtle chemical differences between healthy and diseased tissue, quantum imaging could enable earlier detection of disease and more accurate diagnosis than is possible with current imaging technologies.

One potential application is cancer diagnosis.

“In the future, this may help clinicians identify cancer earlier, define tumour boundaries more accurately, and make more informed treatment decisions, leading to better outcomes for patients,” he said.

From quantum communication to quantum imaging

With a PhD in photonics, he spent five years at the Centre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore, contributing to research across a range of quantum technologies.

During this time, he worked on quantum communication, quantum networks and advanced optical systems, including research into satellite-based secure data transmission, quantum dots, trapped-ion systems and advanced microscopy.

His move to UTS introduced him to quantum imaging and its potential applications in healthcare.

“What excites me most is the opportunity to turn quantum technologies from laboratory research into practical tools that can make a real difference in healthcare,” he said.

Translating research into real-world impact

At UTS, Isa is part of a team currently developing a quantum imaging platform for biomedical applications. His achievements include receiving a QUBIC Research Translation Portfolio Fellowship and the QUBIC Research Translation Pioneer Award, winning the UTS Research Translation Competition with his team, and participating in Quantum Australia’s NewQ Pre-Accelerator Program

Advice for future quantum researchers

Students interested in quantum optics, photonics, imaging, biomedical technologies, instrumentation, data analysis or research translation can find exciting opportunities to contribute to this rapidly growing field.

“My advice to students is to build strong foundations in physics, mathematics and problem-solving, while also developing practical experimental or computational skills,” he said. “Quantum technology is highly interdisciplinary, so being curious, adaptable and willing to learn across different fields is just as important as technical expertise.”

Interested in pursuing a PhD in quantum science and technology? Explore the Sydney Quantum Academy Experts Network to connect with researchers and discover potential supervision and research opportunities across Australia's quantum ecosystem.