Postdoctoral Fellow in Physics

University of Queensland

Full-time, fixed-term position for up to 4 years
Academic Level A / Level B
Location: St Lucia campus

About This Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to contribute to the research program of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Industrial Transformation Training Centre on Current and Emergent Quantum Technologies (QuTech). The role will contribute to the integrated photonics and cold atoms research program within QuTech. You will co-supervise the HDR students of QuTech and work closely with QuTech's industry partners (Quandela and Infleqtion). An ideal start date would be April 2026, with some flexibility for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

Research

• Conduct research and develop a research program in experimental, integrated quantum photonics and atom systems.
• Establish capability to design, fabricate, characterise, and test on-chip quantum devices.
• Produce quality research outputs consistent with discipline norms by publishing or exhibiting in high-quality outlets.
• Present research results at international and national conferences.
• Participate in the academic life of the School of Mathematics and Physics, including giving talks at seminars and regular group meetings.
• Collaborate with colleagues and postgraduates in developing and executing joint research projects.
• Review and draw upon best practice research methodologies.

In addition to the above, Level B will:

• Take a senior role in producing high-quality research outputs.
• Participate in or contribute as chief investigator (often with more experienced researchers) in applications for competitive research funding, including actively seeking, obtaining and managing research funding.

To view the Position Description in full, please email talent@uq.edu.au.

This is a research-focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will work alongside leading researchers from all over the world, within an environment that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration.

UQ is committed to:

• Ensuring students remain at the core of teaching and learning.
• Providing world-class research facilities and equipment.
• Offering grant writing support and expanded research funding opportunities.
• Supporting staff development and professional practice.

Additional benefits include:

• Membership in a Group of Eight university.
• Recognition of prior service with other Australian universities.
• Up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave.
• 17.5% annual leave loading.
• Flexible working arrangements (hybrid/WFH options, flexible hours).
• Access to internal-only vacancies.
• Genuine academic career progression pathways.

About You

• Applicants will have (or be in the process of obtaining) a PhD in Physics, in areas related to Photonics, Atomic Systems, or Quantum Engineering.
• Strong background and demonstrated ability to conduct research in Photonics, Atomic Systems, or Quantum Engineering, with high-level theoretical and experimental skills.
• Experimental experience (fabrication, testing) in one or more of the following platforms:
  • silicon-on-insulator
  • silicon nitride
  • lithium niobate
  • silicon carbide
  • silica
• Demonstrated research quality and creativity, evidenced by highly-cited publications in leading international peer-reviewed journals (relative to publication year).
• Demonstrated ability to conduct research independently and collaboratively.
• Demonstrated capacity to supervise postgraduate and honours students.
• High-level verbal and written communication skills (applicants are invited to submit a sample of scientific writing they are most proud of).
• High-level interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with colleagues, staff, and students.

In addition to the above, Level B will have:

• Demonstrated capacity to take chief investigator roles in external research funding applications.
• A growing research profile in the discipline area.
• A developing reputation and track record of publications in refereed journals and conference presentations.
• Evidence of seeking, obtaining and managing external research funding.
• A growing record of supervising Honours and Research Higher Degree students to successful completion.
• Experience in internal service roles and meaningful external engagement activities.

The successful candidate may be required to complete pre-employment checks, including right-to-work and education verification.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? Employer-sponsored work rights support may be available.

Questions?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact:
Associate Professor Jacqui Romero — m.romero@uq.edu.au

For application inquiries, contact the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, including the job reference number.

Want to Apply?

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please upload:

• Resume
• Cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section
• A sample of written research work you are most proud of

We value equity, diversity, and inclusion, and strive to attract, retain, and promote diverse talent. If you require an alternative application method due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact talent@uq.edu.au.

Other Information

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process that recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers or challenges that impact their career trajectory. Candidates who do not meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunity.

Applications close: January 23, 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-58208).
Interviews are tentatively scheduled for early February 2026.