Zourab Brodzeli

Dr. Zourab Brodzeli is a physicist, innovator, and entrepreneur with over 35 years of research and development experience in photonics, optical sensing, and advanced telecommunications technologies. He is the founder and CEO of PhoenixZ Pty Ltd, an Australian deep-tech startup developing intrinsically safe, optically powered sensing networks for hazardous environments, including underground coal mines, hydrogen facilities, and subsea infrastructure.

Dr. Brodzeli’s career spans leading roles in both academia and industry across Australia, and the United States. He has held senior R&D and executive positions at Zedelef Pty Ltd, the University of New South Wales, Victoria University,University of Sydney, Phaethon Communications, and Redfern Optical Components, among others.

Dr. Brodzeli holds a PhD in Photonics and Optics from the University of Sydney, a Business Degree from AGSM, and advanced degrees in physics and electro-optics from leading institutions in Georgia and the former USSR. He is the author of multiple patents in optical sensing, fibre-based telemetry, power-over-fibre systems, liquid crystal-based voltage sensing, and underwater data networks.

Throughout his career, Dr. Brodzeli has demonstrated a unique ability to translate complex scientific ideas into practical, commercially viable technologies. He has led development across all stages of innovation—from TRL 1 proof-of-concept to TRL 7–8 commercial prototypes—often within startup environments. His leadership has positioned PhoenixZ as a key contributor to Australia’s sovereign capability in sensing, energy, and critical infrastructure.

With PhoenixZ, Dr. Brodzeli’s vision is to establish a globally competitive, locally manufactured sensing platformthat improves safety, reduces emissions, and transforms the energy and resource sectors in Australia and abroad.