A trailblazer in cybersecurity and quantum innovation, Dr Farina Riaz has already carved out a remarkable legacy in one of the world’s fastest growing fields.
She was the first PhD student at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) and CSIRO to focus on Quantum AI – setting the stage for national research leadership, mentoring the next generation of scientists, and advocating for mental health and inclusion across the tech industry.
Most recently, Dr Riaz was named Australia’s Most Outstanding in IT Security at the 2025 Australian Women in Security Awards, adding to a growing list of national honours recognising her impact on cybersecurity, quantum research, and community leadership.
We caught up with Dr Riaz to learn more about her journey – from a bold research pivot to international acclaim in a field with no roadmap.
Tell us about your time at the UniSQ? What did you study and why did you choose to study here?
I joined UniSQ in July 2020 and completed my PhD in June 2023. Initially, my research was in vehicle-to-vehicle communication, but in January 2021, I was awarded the CSIRO Data61 top-up scholarship, which enabled me to pivot into Quantum Artificial Intelligence – a pioneering shift at the time. I became the first PhD student at both UniSQ and CSIRO to work in this exciting new area.
I chose UniSQ because of my supervisor, Dr Shahab. I had met him before starting my PhD and was so impressed by his mentorship and expertise that I knew I wanted to pursue my doctorate under his guidance.
What was your inspiration for studying your chosen discipline?
I’ve always been inspired by disruptive technologies and the idea of working at the frontier of what’s possible. Quantum AI combines the complexity of quantum physics with the power of machine learning – it’s as cutting-edge as it gets.
It wasn’t an easy path. There was no existing research group or peer support in this area when I started. But I had exceptional mentorship at UniSQ and guidance from an international quantum expert from India, along with support from my CSIRO supervisors. Their encouragement kept me motivated in a field that I’m deeply passionate about.
What has been your greatest memory from your time at UniSQ?
One of my greatest memories was serving as the Higher Degree by Research (HDR) student representative for the UniSQ College. This role gave me the opportunity to advocate for my peers, foster a strong research culture, and contribute to building a supportive academic community.
You now work at CSIRO. Tell us about your journey to be working for that organisation and a little about what your role involves.
My journey with CSIRO began during my PhD through the Data61 scholarship, which gave me valuable industry exposure and connections. After completing my doctorate, I joined CSIRO full-time, where I now work at the intersection of quantum technologies, cybersecurity, and AI.
My role involves leading research projects, publishing academic work, mentoring students, and collaborating with government and industry partners to design secure, next-generation solutions for Australia's digital future.
You’ve just been awarded Australia’s Most Outstanding in IT Security at the 2025 Australian Women in Security Awards. What does this mean to you?
This award is incredibly meaningful. It goes beyond technical achievements – it recognises leadership, resilience, and community impact. Working in a new and complex field like Quantum AI often meant navigating challenges without a clear roadmap.
This recognition validates those efforts and shows that pioneering work, mentorship, and advocacy truly matter. It also motivates me to continue breaking new ground and uplifting others in cybersecurity.
You were acknowledged for your work in quantum, leadership, technical experience, and contributions to research and the community. What are some of the highlights of your career so far?
Some key highlights include:
• Introducing and developing Quantum AI research at UniSQ and CSIRO
• Publishing high-impact papers in the field
• Leading the first CSIRO/UniSQ Industry PhD in Quantum AI – An Australian first project applying quantum machine learning to real-world challenges in education, health, and food systems
• Mentoring early-career researchers and students
• Representing Australia internationally in forums focused on women in STEM and quantum security
Since 2021, I’ve been profiled by the CSIRO Data61 student journey page and regularly featured by CSIRO, Quantum Australia, and Quantum Women. I was spotlighted during International Women’s Day as a Woman in Technology and continue to give IWD talks to inspire others.
In 2023, I won the People’s Choice Award by Quantum Australia and was featured in their official wrap-up video. I was selected for the Elevating Quantum Women’s Voice leadership training by Quantum Australia and Quantum Women 2025.
I’ve also delivered national and international guest lectures and participated in industry events such as IBM Australia workshops. Beyond research, I advocate for mental health and resilience as a Mental Health Champion within the tech and research community and serve as the Quantum Women Lead for the Australian Women in AI APAC.
In just two years working in cybersecurity at CSIRO, I received several awards, including:
• Best in Quantum in Cyber Champion Winner – Australian Women in Security (2024)
• Technology Trailblazer Award Finalist – Australian Women of Colour (2025)
• Best Use of AI in Cybersecurity Finalist – Australian Women in Security Awards (2025)
• Alumni Award for Leadership and Professional Excellence Finalist – UniSQ Alumni Awards (2025)
These accolades reflect both the technical and human dimensions of my work.
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