The National Quantum and Dark Matter Road Trip coming to the Territory for the first time

A team of scientists are coming into the Territory to bring the latest in quantum and dark matter science – but it’s not only visiting schools. Find out how you can get involved.

CDM researcher Peter McNamara demonstrates physics to Queensland students.

A road trip with a difference is set to roll through the Territory and bring the latest in cutting edge science to some of the most remote parts of Australia.

The National Quantum and Dark Matter Road Trip is back on and this year it’s set to bring 13 scientists into the Territory for the first time in August.

Dr McAllister is the organiser of this year’s road trip, and when he’s not at the Australian Research Council Centres of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) and Dark Matter Particle Physics (CDM) he’s helping spread the word about the importance of the science.

“It is important to share the excitement of quantum and dark matter science with students and communities that might not otherwise have the opportunity to meet scientists face-to-face and learn about the cutting-edge science happening in Australia,” he said.

“We’re excited to be reaching more remote communities than previous road trips, both in number and the level of remoteness.

“This year’s trip will visit the Northern Territory for the first time – we’re especially grateful to be visiting Aboriginal communities and community-run schools and spaces for the first time.”

EQUS researcher Kerstin Beer presents to students at Emerald State High School in 2024.

The road trip will start in Queensland before coming through the Territory and ending in WA.

The team will head into Alice Springs, Mataranka, Tennant Creek, Katherine, Darwin and more.

But it’s not just high school talks for the team – there will also be pub trivia nights and other public information events.

Macquarie University and EQUS Research Fellow Dr Kerstin Beer – who was involved in last year’s road trip – said it was great to travel to remote parts of Australia and talk science.

“It was wonderful to meet students, especially girls, from communities across Australia,” she said.

“Inspiring women to get into physics or to think about a career in quantum is something close to my heart.

“It also sends the message that scientists can and should come from all backgrounds – we don’t all look and sound the same!”