After more than two decades as a general practitioner, Dr. Sally Shrapnel made a remarkable transition to become a full-time physicist. Based at the University of Queensland, she has since emerged as one of Australia’s leading figures in quantum science.
Dr. Shrapnel initially balanced her time between practicing medicine and pursuing a PhD focused on the enigmatic principles of quantum theory. Her fascination with the fundamental laws of the universe began in childhood, nurtured by a household brimming with science fiction literature.
From Medicine to Quantum Mechanics
Dr. Shrapnel’s journey into the world of science began at an early age, influenced by her love for science fiction. “I’ve always been fascinated by really, kind of, outrageous science ideas,” she shared, reflecting on her childhood favorites like John Wyndham’s “Trouble with Lichen,” which featured a female biochemist protagonist.
Her academic path took her through a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at the University of Queensland in 1995. Initially aspiring to become a radiologist, she found her calling as a general practitioner in the small town of Bothwell, Tasmania. “It was the first time I got to really put into practice all the stuff I’d learnt,” she recounted.
Despite her passion for medicine, Dr. Shrapnel felt a persistent pull towards the “techie” aspects of science. This led her to further studies in philosophy, where she encountered philosophical theories on scientific explanations, each with a caveat: “except for quantum theory.”
The Quantum Leap
This curiosity about the mysteries of quantum theory propelled Dr. Shrapnel to pursue a PhD, exploring its potential to enhance artificial intelligence and machine learning. Her research aims to develop new algorithms and frameworks that could revolutionize fields such as healthcare decision-making.
The significance of quantum theory is underscored by its centennial celebration this year, with the United Nations declaring 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Quantum technology’s applications are vast, from smartphones to medical imaging.
“Quantum theory is our most fundamental theory… the physical theory of how the world works,” Dr. Shrapnel explained.
Leadership in Quantum Science
Dr. Shrapnel played a pivotal role in the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS), serving as deputy director until its conclusion in May. The center was instrumental in pioneering systems engineering within the quantum realm.
Australia, often described as a “quiet achiever” in quantum science, has produced significant advancements through EQUS, including 10 startups and notable ventures like Iceberg Quantum and Redback Systems. These initiatives have positioned Australia as a leader in the global quantum landscape.
“Australia just punches way above its weight in terms of quantum science,” Dr. Shrapnel noted.
Inspiring Future Generations
Dr. Shrapnel is committed to inspiring the next generation of female scientists. She emphasizes the importance of diversity in physics, noting the progress made since EQUS’s inception in 2011. “If there’s anything that came out of EQUS that I’m most proud of, it’s we’ve got this cohort of incredible women who [are] really well set up to lead Australia into the next quantum revolution,” she said.
Her advice to aspiring female scientists is to embrace the challenges of quantum science, describing it as the “most exciting and interesting area of science that you can work in.”
Dr. Shrapnel’s journey from medicine to quantum physics exemplifies a unique blend of curiosity and determination, setting a precedent for future scientists eager to explore the unknown.
