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Dr Manolo Per

Senior Research Scientist

https://people.csiro.au/P/M/Manolo-Per

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Contact details:

PRIVATE BAG 10
CLAYTON SOUTH VIC 3169 AUSTRALIA

Biography

Dr Manolo C. Per is a Senior Research Scientist in CSIRO’s Technology research unit, based in Melbourne. His work centres on advancing computational approaches to quantum science. While his primary interest is research, he has also held leadership roles within CSIRO, including leading the organisation’s Quantum Technologies Cross-Cutting Capability over its full duration.

Manolo specialises in electronic-structure theory, focusing on developing computational methods to solve the quantum many-body problem and translating these into high-performance scientific software. He is a central figure in the development of CMQMC (CSIRO Molecular/Materials Quantum Monte Carlo), a software platform for highly accurate simulations of electronic systems used in chemistry and materials science.

With over 20 years of experience, his research spans quantum chemistry, condensed matter physics, and nanoscience, with contributions to diffusion quantum Monte Carlo methods and the modelling of complex materials at the atomic scale. In more recent years, his work has increasingly focused on the application of quantum computing to quantum chemistry, exploring how emerging quantum hardware can enable more accurate and scalable simulations of molecular systems. Beyond technical research, he has also contributed to broader discussions on the future of quantum technologies, including their societal impact and ethical implications.

Professional Areas

Academic Qualifications

  • 2005

    PhD (Physics)
    University of Newcastle upon Tyne

  • 2000

    MPhys (Theoretical Physics)
    University of Newcastle upon Tyne

Professional Experiences

  • 2021-2024

    Cross-Cutting Capability Leader: Quantum Technologies
    CSIRO

  • 2017-2019

    Team Leader: Molecular & Materials Modelling
    CSIRO Data61

  • 2012-current

    Senior Research Scientist
    CSIRO

  • 2005-2012

    Postdoctoral Research Fellow
    RMIT University

Publications

We have publications by Dr Manolo Per