"Postdoctoral Research Fellow"

Job Description:

• School of Mathematics and Physics
• Full-time, fixed-term position for up to 4 years
• Academic Level A / Level B
• Based at our St Lucia campus location

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 work 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 will include:

Research

• Conduct research and develop research program in experimental, integrated quantum photonics and atom systems
• Establish capability to design, fabricate, characterise, and test on-chip quantum devices
• Produces quality research outputs consistent with discipline norms by publishing or exhibiting in high quality outlets.
• Present the results of their research 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 the development and execution of 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 role (often in conjunction with more experienced researchers) in applications for competitive research funding to support projects and activities, which includes 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 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 carry out 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 (relative to publication year) in leading international peer-reviewed journals
• Demonstrated ability to conduct research both independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• Demonstrated capacity to supervise research postgraduate and honours students
• High-level of verbal and written communication skills (together with their CV, the applicant is invited to submit a sample of their scientific writing, something they are most proud of)
• High level interpersonal skills including ability to interact well with colleagues, staff, and students

In addition to the above, level B will have:

• Demonstrated capacity to take chief investigator role in applications for external research funds
• A growing profile in research in the discipline area.
• A developing reputation and track record of publications in reputed refereed journals and presenting at conferences.
• Evidence of seeking, obtaining and managing external research funding.
• A growing record of supervision of Honours and Research Higher Degree students to successful completion.
• Experience in meaningful internal service roles in conjunction with active contributions to external activities

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia and education check.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.

Questions?

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

For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

Want to Apply?

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

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

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. If you require an alternative method to submit your application 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, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

Applications close January 23 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-58208). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for early February 2026.