Postdoctoral Research Fellow / Research Fellow (Academic Level A / Level B) in Theoretical Quantum Physics

Job Description:

School of Mathematics and Physics

• 2 x Full-time (100%), fixed-term positions for up to 3 years
• Academic Level A / Level B
• Based at our St Lucia location

The School of Mathematics and Physics invites applications for two research-focused Postdoctoral Research Fellow / Research Fellow positions in theoretical quantum physics. This recruitment comprises two distinct roles, each aligned to an Australian Research Council Discovery Project exploring nonequilibrium quantum systems. One role focuses on nonequilibrium superfluids, with particular emphasis on controlling superfluid transport through spatially engineered dissipation, while the second role focuses on quantum thermodynamics, addressing fundamental questions in quantum statistical mechanics and quantum many-body systems.

Working within a highly collaborative, inquisitive and globally connected research environment, you will contribute to advancing foundational knowledge with relevance to emerging quantum technologies, while engaging with a vibrant community of researchers and higher degree students.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Research: Contribute to and expand an established UQ research program, collaborate on research projects, seek and manage research funding, publish in reputable journals, utilise best practice research methodologies, and participate in project discussions.
• Supervision and Researcher Development: Recruit and supervise students, provide performance feedback and training, resolve conflicts.
• Citizenship and Service: Develop partnerships, demonstrate leadership through mentoring, engage in internal service roles and committees, perform administrative functions, provide support to colleagues, and uphold university values

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

For further information, please click here to view the information booklet.

About You

• Completion (or near completion for Level A) of a PhD in theoretical quantum physics, condensed matter physics, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated capacity to produce high-quality research outputs, evidenced by publications or equivalent scholarly contributions.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and conceptual skills relevant to nonequilibrium quantum systems or quantum thermodynamics.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Experience or demonstrated potential in supervising or mentoring students or junior researchers.
• Alignment with UQ’s values, including a clear commitment to equity, diversity and inclusive research practices.

Please view the above recruitment booklet for more information on the About You section for each level.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Matthew Davis via mdavis@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.

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume, cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section and a short statement (up to one page) explaining how your expertise and past research experience connect to one or both of the research projects, and what specific directions you might wish to pursue within these themes. Please also specify in your application whether you are applying for one or both positions.

As part of the Selection Process, shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview and asked to give a brief, five‑minute presentation on a recent piece of their research relevant to their application.

Interviews will be conducted via Zoom.

Applications close 28 May 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-62571).

Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for mid-June.