Postdoctoral Research Associates / Lecturer in Quantum Simulation

• 3 x full time positions ranging from 1 to 4 years fixed term. Located on the Camperdown Campus at the School of Chemistry

• Opportunity to develop state-of-the-art algorithms for simulating chemistry on quantum computers

• Base Salary, Academic level A/B $101,507 - $140,586 + 17% superannuation 

About the opportunity

The School of Chemistry is currently seeking three Postdoctoral Research Associates / Lecturer in Quantum Simulation to work with Prof. Ivan Kassal on chemical applications of quantum computing.

Chemistry and materials science are among the most promising applications of quantum computation, especially using near-term quantum devices. The successful candidates will work with Prof. Kassal to benchmark the performance of quantum algorithms for simulating chemical dynamics, develop new ones, and identify chemical reactions that are most promising for early demonstrations of quantum advantage. Our goal is to identify the best algorithms—both digital and analog—for the hardest problems in chemistry, so that we can take maximum advantage of early quantum computers. The appointments will span projects ranging from analog quantum simulation using trapped ions, digital quantum simulation, and theoretical chemistry needed to map chemical problems onto quantum machines. For further information, please see our website, https://www.kassal.group , or contact Prof. Kassal.

You will have access to the rich quantum ecosystem in Sydney and in Australia. The University of Sydney hosts a node of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems and is a member of the Sydney Quantum Academy, along with three other Sydney universities. You will have opportunities to collaborate with theorists and experimentalists across all of these networks, as well as with our collaborators in industry.

This advertisement covers three positions, and you may indicate in your cover letter which one(s) you wish to be considered for. The positions are similar, but have key differences:

0114615 Postdoctoral Research Associate in Analog Quantum Simulation:

• 100% research

• appointed at Level A for a term of 1 year, extendible to 2.5 years subject to continuing external funding

• opportunity to work on analog quantum simulation using ion traps, in close collaboration with experimentalist collaborators in the School of Physics.

0114616 Postdoctoral Research Associate in Quantum Simulation for Chemistry:

• 100% research

• appointed at Level A for a term of 3 years, extendible to 4 years subject to continuing external funding

• possible projects in both analog and digital simulation.

0114618 Lecturer in Chemistry and Postdoctoral Research Associate in Quantum Simulation for Chemistry:

• 60% research, 30% teaching, 10% service

• appointed at Level B for a term of 3 years, extendible to 4 years subject to continuing external funding

• possible projects in both analog and digital simulation

• includes an opportunity to teach courses in the School of Chemistry, ideal for candidates who wish to develop their teaching track record.

In all three positions, your key responsibilities will include:

• undertake theoretical and computational research at the interface of quantum computing and theoretical chemistry

• disseminate research results through publications and conference presentations

• contribute to research planning, project management, and grant writing

• mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students

• establish and maintain external collaborations

• carry out limited administrative functions.

In addition, position 0114618 includes teaching and service responsibilities:

• teach undergraduate courses in the School of Chemistry

• participate in professional development of teaching skills and, if appropriate, contribute to curriculum development

• carry out administrative functions in the School of Chemistry.

About you

The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. We see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for candidates who have:

• a PhD (or near completion) in physics, chemistry, or a related field

• experience in theoretical or computational techniques in one or more of the following areas: design and analysis of quantum algorithms, quantum simulation, quantum optics, quantum dynamics, chemical dynamics (esp. non-adiabatic photochemistry, strong fields, or in condensed matter)

• a track record of disseminating significant research results through publications and presentations

• demonstrated ability to conduct research under limited supervision

• demonstrated ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams

• excellent communication (written and verbal), organisational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

In addition, for position 0114618, we are looking for candidates with:

• experience in teaching at the tertiary level

• ability to teach advanced undergraduate units in chemistry

• experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating teaching and learning initiatives, or a willingness to learn.

Overall, across the three positions, we aim to create a multidisciplinary team with both computational chemists and theoretical physicists.

Visa sponsorship is available for overseas candidates.

To keep our community safe, please be aware of our COVID safety precautions which form our conditions of entry for all staff, students and visitors coming to campus.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement 

At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community which reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People , women , people living with a disability , people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds , and those who identify as LGBTIQ . We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. 

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.  

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard.  Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Simon Drew, Recruitment Operations by email on [email protected]

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The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

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Applications Close

Monday 11 March 2024 11:59 PM