About us
Te Whai Ao — Dodd-Walls Centre is leading photonic and quantum technologies in Aotearoa, forming an inclusive research eco-system that produces excellent science, innovation and people. We do so through two main research programmes, the Beacons and Quantum Technologies Aotearoa.
We create impact in everything we do.
We’re deepening partnerships with Māori and Pacific peoples through focussed engagement and industry programmes.
Our Mission
Te Whai Ao — Dodd-Walls Centre is advancing globally distinctive research to future-proof critical capabilities and infrastructure for Aotearoa's economy and well-being. We oversee Quantum Technologies Aotearoa (QTA), a national multi-institution research programme focused on ensuring New Zealand benefits from the advancement and adoption of quantum technologies.
Professor Jack Dodd helped establish the theoretical foundations of laser spectroscopy and in the 1960s quantum optics. Professor Dan Walls formulated theories for the production of squeezed light during the following decade. In 2015 the Dodd-Walls Centre became a Centre of Research Excellence.
In 2023, the Centre was officially blessed with a new te reo Māori name, Te Whai Ao, representing the first rays of light that break the darkness of light.
The Dodd-Walls Centre research focus is photonics, the generation, transmission, and manipulation of light, and the study of matter and energy at the quantum level.