Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Fellow in Quantum Algorithms (Decarbonisation)

Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Fellow in Quantum Algorithms (Decarbonisation)

Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology / School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Full-time fixed-term position for up to 3 years

Base salary will be in the range $83,698.91 - $111,431.10+ 17% super (Academic Level A) or $117,120.53 - $138,769.70 + 17% super (Academic Level B)

Based at our St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity

Join a collaborative and fast-growing quantum research environment focused on solving real-world decarbonisation challenges through cutting-edge quantum computing.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow or Research Fellow to undertake research in quantum algorithms, error correction, and fault-tolerant quantum computing architectures, with applications to decarbonisation. Based within the Queensland Quantum Decarbonisation Alliance (QDA), you will work with Eleanor Rieffel in the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at The University of Queensland.

You will join a curious, ambitious and supportive team within a rapidly expanding interdisciplinary community spanning academia, industry and government, contributing to impactful research at the forefront of quantum innovation and sustainability.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Develop, analyse and publish high-quality research on quantum and hybrid quantum-classical algorithms for decarbonisation use cases, including simulation (of classical or quantum systems), combinatorial optimisation, machine learning, data analysis, or quantum computational sensing.
• Contribute to, and provide research leadership in, the co-design of algorithms, quantum error correction and fault tolerant architectures tailored to specific use cases, including resource estimation and innovative approaches to reduce overheads.
• Work with domain experts across industry, government and academia to formulate high-impact computational use cases and benchmark problems of varying size and hardness to track progress towards quantum advantage.
• Support research training through co-supervision of Honours and Higher Degree by Research students (as appropriate to level), and contribute to quantum algorithms training within EECS.

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

About You

Applicants should possess a PhD in a relevant field (Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering or another discipline related to quantum computing).

Additionally, you will demonstrate:

• A growing profile in research in the discipline area of quantum computing, including a developing reputation and track record of publications in reputed refereed journals and presenting at conferences.
• Demonstrated research creativity and innovative development of algorithms that have application to decarbonisation, such as simulation of classical systems including differential equation solving, simulation of quantum systems, combinatorial optimization, machine learning and data analysis, or quantum computational sensing.
• Experience analysing quantum algorithms, proving bounds, and/or estimating resources in an error corrected and fault tolerant setting.
• Capacity to supervise and mentor Honours and Higher Degree by Research students to successful completion.
• Demonstrated high‑level written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to academic, industry and stakeholder audiences.
• Well‑developed interpersonal and leadership skills, including the ability to contribute positively to the academic and research culture of the University.

Additional for Level B:

• Demonstrated capability to initiate, lead and complete research projects, demonstrating intellectual independence alongside effective collaboration.
• Experience in supervising and mentoring Honours and Higher Degree by Research students to successful completion, with a growing record of effective research training and researcher development.
• A growing record of seeking, obtaining and managing external research funding.
• Experience in meaningful internal service roles.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged. As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad: from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Eleanor Rieffel at e.rieffel@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, and responses to the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.

Other Information

Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia and qualification checks. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights and a relocation support package, however upfront costs will still be expected to be covered. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close Tuesday 23 June 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-65232). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for the week commencing June 29 2026.