Prof Eleanor Rieffel

Dr Eleanor Rieffel explores how quantum computing, together with classical computing, can be harnessed to address complex problems modeling and simulation, logistics and communication, and fundamental science. Her research spans quantum algorithms, distributed quantum computing, fault-tolerant quantum architectures, and applications of quantum computing, with a strong focus on assessing where quantum-enhanced computing can deliver meaningful scientific and practical benefit.

At The University of Queensland, Dr Rieffel is Director of the Queensland Quantum Decarbonisation Alliance, a Queensland Government-funded consortium bringing together research and industry organisations to apply quantum technologies to decarbonisation challenges. As a QPI Chief Investigator, she brings expertise in quantum algorithms, quantum error correction, resource estimation, and application-driven research, helping connect advances in fault-tolerant quantum computing with problems where improved computational capability could have real-world impact.

Before joining the University of Queensland, Dr Rieffel led the Quantum Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at NASA Ames Research Center and was the NASA Senior Researcher for Advanced Computing and Data Analytics. Her experience spanning foundational quantum research, high-impact applications, and cross-disciplinary collaboration strengthens QPI's connections between quantum-computing research and emerging areas of application, including decarbonisation.