Postdoctoral Researcher in Physics

• Full time, fixed term opportunity until 30th April 2025. Located on the Camperdown Campus based in the School of Physics

• Opportunity to contribute to world-class collaborative research focused on quantum computation using trapped ions

• Academic Level A/B. Base Salary $101,507  - $140,586 p.a + 17% superannuation

About the opportunity

We seek to appoint a Postdoctoral Researcher in Physics for projects focused on quantum control, quantum computing, and quantum simulation using trapped ions.

The Quantum Control Laboratory at the University of Sydney is focused on experimental studies of quantum control, quantum computation, metrology, and quantum simulation using trapped ions. The lab is a part of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Engineered Quantum Systems (EQuS ), a collaboration of five major Australian universities focused on fundamental and applied research in quantum physics and engineering. In addition, the lab is funded by the US Army Research Office (ARO), the US Office of Naval Research (ONR), the US Air Force of Scientific Research (AFOSR), and the Wellcome Leap. Furthermore, the University is part of the Sydney Quantum Academy (SQA ). We also have long-established collaborations with external partners, including industrial partners such as quantum technology startup Q-CTRL. Details of recent publications and ongoing research projects are available at https://quantum.sydney.edu.au/

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of activities through collaboration with PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and senior research leaders on topics that include:

• develop new programmable quantum algorithms for the simulations of chemical dynamics , with a focus on drug design. This is a physics-chemistry-medicine interdisciplinary project with the University of Sydney’s School of Chemistry and the Faculty of Medicine

• exploring advanced quantum control techniques for qudit- and bosonic-based quantum computations, e.g., link

• quantum-classical interface between a trapped-ion system and ultra-low phase noise cryogenic sapphire oscillator (CSO) to push the boundary of coherence time and high-fidelity quantum gates (link ). This is a collaboration with our partners at the University of Western Australia

• develop resource-efficient quantum characterisation, verification, and validation by leveraging insights from the fields of robotic control and machine learning, e.g., link

• develop novel quantum metrology protocols for sensing and the tests of fundamental physics.

The School of Physics is committed to creating a diverse workplace by improving equity, access, and opportunity. We want to create an environment of world-leading teaching and research where individuality is welcomed and celebrated. We are continuously working to identify and remove biases and barriers in an effort to make our workplace open, supportive and safe for everyone.

To learn more about the School of Physics, click here .

About you

The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. As such, we see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Physics who has:

• a PhD (or near completion) in Physics or equivalent in a relevant field

• proven ability to lead projects and deliver major research outcomes

• evidence of proficiency in oral and written communication

• evidence of independent contributions to scientific or technical outcomes

• experience in one or more of the following experimental areas will be desired: experimental ion trapping, atomic physics, precision metrology using atomic and optical systems, microwave engineering, optics, and quantum control.

• candidates with theoretical backgrounds are welcome, as long as the candidate can demonstrate familiarity with experimental techniques and applications.

The commencement level will be determined based on the candidate’s skills, experience and knowledge.

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 Chris Masaoka, Recruitment Operations by email to [email protected]

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Applications Close

Sunday 03 March 2024 11:59 PM