Meet Miraex co-founder Clément Javerzac-Galy—a Venture Leader Deeptech who develops photonic solutions for next-generation sensing and quantum computing

10.11.2021 07:00, Isabelle Mitchell

Miraex develops photonic and quantum full-stack solutions for next-generation sensing, networking, and computing. The startup enables companies to detect anomalies in equipment or infrastructure located in hostile environments, including areas where standard electronic sensors do not work (e.g., high voltage, high pressure, extreme temperatures, and explosive environments). Miraex’s solution provides businesses with critical data and analytics to help make data-driven maintenance decisions while avoiding downtime and increasing safety. Get to know Miraex co-founder Clément, learn more about his expectations for the Venture Leaders Deeptech experience, and discover the stellar inspiration behind his startup’s name. 

The Swiss National Startup Team has 10 new deeptech members: An expert jury has chosen 10 companies whose innovative potential transforms engineering, robotics, supply chains, logistics, and sustainability. Before the startups embark on their investor roadshow to Munich and London later this month, we will introduce you to the Venture Leaders Deeptech 2021. We asked each entrepreneur to complete a short profile and choose at least six questions from a questionnaire about their personal and professional life.

Name: Clément Javerzac-Galy
Location: Ecublens
Nationality: French
Graduated from: Institut d’Optique in Paris and EPFL, PhD in quantum physics, 2018
Job title: Co-founder and co-CEO of Miraex
Number of employees: 16
Money raised: CHF 5.5 million
First touchpoint with Venturelab: In 2014, for the Venture Challenge events

“Miraex offers photonic sensors for areas that traditional electronics-based sensors cannot service.”

How and where did you come up with the idea for your startup?
While using devices for fundamental quantum physics in a cryostat (a very cold fridge), I realized one could use simple versions of those microdevices to help do measurements in extreme conditions where it is otherwise impossible.
 
What do you expect from the Venture Leaders roadshow, and how will it help you achieve your vision?
It will provide Miraex with a supporting kick in global exposure. I am also looking forward to connecting with inspiring changemakers.

What is one thing not many people know about you?
Since the age of 5, I have been a boy scout. The values learned there deeply impact who I am today.

What is your favorite book? 
Temps des crises [Times of Crisis: What the Financial Crisis Revealed and How to Reinvent our Lives and Future] by Michel Serres. He describes in a short essay the ‘crisis’ we currently live in and how our Planet should be a major actor on the political scene. Otherwise, Le pauvre homme du Toggenbourg [The life story and real adventures of the poor man of Toggenburg] by Uli Bräker for its authenticity.

What are you most proud of? 
My team at Miraex: They are kicking a** and sciencing the sh*t out of things!

How did you come up with the name of your startup?
Mira is a variable star, representing all the most extreme environments in one object and from which the only information we get is via light; same as for our sensors extracting information in the most extreme conditions thanks to variating light. Ex is for the exponential scaling of quantum computing that our technology enables. Thus, Miraex.

What is the most important lesson you have learned as a founder?
Be careful whom you trust.

What is the best advice you have ever received and from whom? 
To go into the field I am in today—thanks to Alain Aspect, pioneer of the second quantum revolution.

 
For more information and updates on Miraex and the Venture Leaders Deeptech, follow the Venture Leaders Deeptech 2021 team with #VLeadersDeeptech on social media or subscribe to our newsletter. 
 
Venture Leaders Deeptech 2021 program is organized by Venturelab and supported by swissnex, EPF Lausanne, ETH Zurich, Helbling Group, Walder Wyss, the Canton of Vaud, and the Canton of Zurich.