Big future for UQ’s 2023 John Monash Scholars

Two University of Queensland alumni are heading to prestigious overseas institutions in 2023 to further their respective studies in quantum physics and applied mathematics.

UQ’s Germain Tobar and Nicholas Maurer have been announced as recipients of the 2023 General Sir John Monash Scholarship for overseas postgraduate study.

Mr Tobar will travel to Sweden to pursue his PhD exploring the world of quantum physics.

“The laws of quantum physics just totally defy common sense and intuition – the principles are so bizarre that it's really interesting to try to dig deeper and make sense of them,” Mr Tobar said.

“I hope to develop our understanding of the foundational aspects of quantum science and translate quantum science into impactful novel technologies for Australia.

“The John Monash Scholarship will allow me to work for an extended period of time overseas with incredible quantum leaders.”

Graduate physicist and engineer Nicholas Maurer will travel to the US to work towards a PhD in Applied Mathematics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

The recent UQ graduate is passionate about energy and education and focuses his research on decarbonised energy systems.

“I’m hoping to learn more about the operational principles of future decarbonised electricity systems and work out how they can better provide for all of us,” Mr Maurer said.

“Mathematics gives you a language to describe complex phenomenon and, despite common belief, mathematics is actually about characterising and simplifying, not complicating.

“The energy system is a complex system and by approaching it through a mathematical lens, I hope to generate useful insights that will help us make informed, rational choices about our energy future.

“The John Monash Scholarship provides the opportunity to study what I love at one of the best institutions in the world - something that would have otherwise been impossible.”

The full list of recipients can be found on the General Sir John Monash Foundation website.

Faculty of Science Media, science.media@uq.edu.au, +61 (0)438 162 687.