PETRA ANDREN

Petra Andren

Petra Andrén – CEO, Quantum Australia Petra is a recognised leader in deep-tech innovation and commercialisation, currently serving as CEO of Quantum Australia and as a board member of Innovation and Industry Science Australia (IISA).

With over 25 years of international experience across advanced technology sectors, she is spearheading the development of a nationally coordinated quantum ecosystem—positioning Australia as a serious global player in quantum innovation and impact.

Her work focuses on translating complex quantum research into real-world outcomes—connecting academia, startups, investors, industry, and government to unlock the transformative potential of quantum computing, sensing, communications, and cybersecurity. Petra’s cross-sector background spans startups, global corporations, venture capital, and public policy.

As former CEO of Cicada Innovations, she helped build a world-class deep-tech incubator, supporting hundreds of science-based ventures across advanced technology sectors. She also led the launch of Australia’s first startup PhD internship program and national accelerator initiatives backing over 30 IP-rich companies.

She’s built the country’s largest early-stage deep-tech VC portfolio, curated Australia’s first Biohackathon, and brought the Nobel Gala event to Sydney—highlighting the intersection of science, creativity, and innovation.

Internationally, Petra has led Austrade Europe’s top-performing industry team, helping Australian tech companies expand into the EU, and established a US base for a European CRO, securing multimillion-dollar contracts and growth. A sought-after mentor, investor, and strategic advisor, Petra brings deep expertise in scaling breakthrough ventures, designing investible innovation ecosystems, and shaping policy for emerging technologies.

She is passionate about enabling the next generation of quantum leaders and ensuring Australia actively shapes—not just adapts to—the future quantum economy.