DeteQt
Scalable diamond-on-chip quantum magnetic field sensors.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| investor | €0.0 | round | |
* | $750k | Seed | |
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
DeteQt is a quantum sensing startup developing highly sensitive and scalable magnetic field sensors based on its patented 'diamond-on-silicon' technology. The company spun out of the University of Sydney in 2023, founded by Adjunct Professor Jim Rabeau and Professor Omid Kavehei, who bring combined expertise in diamond-based quantum sensing and semiconductor design. Rabeau, the CEO, has a background that includes leadership roles at Microsoft's quantum computing program and CSIRO, while Kavehei, the Chief Scientific Officer, is an expert in electrical engineering. They are joined by COO Rupal Ismin, who has experience scaling startups.
DeteQt's core technology integrates nitrogen-vacancy (NV) diamond technology with standard silicon chip fabrication processes, creating quantum magnetometers that are low-cost, portable, and manufacturable at volume. This approach allows for the development of compact sensors that can operate at room temperature, removing the need for the complex cooling systems required by many quantum devices. The company's business model is centered on providing these advanced sensors to various industries by forming strategic partnerships. Its target markets include defence, mining, and healthcare.
The company has secured significant early traction, including a $3 million contract with the Australian Defence Force for GPS-denied navigation systems. In March 2025, DeteQt raised $750,000 in pre-seed funding from Main Sequence Ventures and US-based investor ATP Fund to accelerate prototype development and expand its team. DeteQt is collaborating with partners such as Fleet Space Technologies for subterranean imaging in mining and US-based OneScan to explore applications in portable MRI systems. The company plans to have a field-deployable demonstrator by September 2025 and is establishing a US entity to expand its commercial engagement.
Keywords: quantum sensing, magnetometers, diamond-on-silicon, nitrogen-vacancy diamond, semiconductor technology, GPS-denied navigation, critical mineral detection, portable medical imaging, quantum hardware, CMOS chip design, deep tech, University of Sydney spin-out, magnetic field sensors, subterranean imaging, defence technology