Growing up, I was always curious about how science can be turned into something practical that improves lives. I wanted to go further, to push boundaries and be part of something bigger.
I wanted a place where I could grow as both a researcher and as a person. Australia stood out immediately. It was the quality of education, the welcoming culture and lifestyle, and the opportunities available.
My studies in Australia
I am a PhD student in Physics at the University of Adelaide*, focusing on developing diamond-doped optical fibres for quantum sensing. My research is based at the Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS), which has some of the best glass fabrication facilities in the world.
Being here has given me the chance to meet and work with leading experts in my field, network with researchers across Australia and collaborate on cutting-edge projects. I’ve had access to world-class laboratories, a supportive team of technicians through the Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF), and the freedom to design my own experiments. These opportunities have helped me grow as both a researcher and a person.
The support structure here is outstanding. We have a dedicated team of highly skilled technicians through ANFF who help bring ideas to life. The best part is that we are not limited by resources—we can design our own setups, and the team works with us to turn those ideas into reality. It’s an environment where creativity and engineering go hand in hand.
My plans for the future
After my PhD, my long-term goal is to contribute to the development of quantum sensing technologies in Australia. I am particularly interested in working with Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), where quantum sensors and magnetometers are becoming increasingly important for navigation, detection, and other advanced applications.
At the same time, I also aspire to one day establish my own research group at the University. I want to help strengthen Australia’s position in the global quantum technology landscape while continuing to grow my career here in Adelaide.
Exploring South Australia
There’s hardly a corner of South Australia I haven’t explored. I’ve been from the Flinders Ranges in the north to Port MacDonnell in the south, and from Kangaroo Island to hidden caves in Yorke Peninsula. I’ve even tried skydiving and scuba diving here. Every experience has been magical—it’s the perfect balance between adventure and peace.
Settling into a new culture
The biggest cultural shock for me was that shops close so early—often around 5 pm! Back home, markets and malls stay open until midnight, so adjusting to this took some time.
I was pleasantly surprised by how laid-back and friendly people are here. Even professors and senior researchers prefer you to call them by their first names, which is very different from the formal culture back home.
Australians love their outdoors. The weekend culture of barbecues, camping and spending time in nature was very new to me—but I’ve grown to love it.
Advice for other students
Do not hold yourself back from anything. Travel and explore as much as you can. Don’t just stick to your own community, mingle with people from different cultures. Everyone has a story to tell, and the more you listen, the wiser you’ll become. This is not just an academic journey; it’s also about personal growth.
*Please note: In 2026, the University of Adelaide and University of South Australia will combine to create Adelaide University.