Overview:

• Full-time, Fixed Term position until 31 December 2029

• Salary Academic Level A or B + 17% Superannuation and Flexible Working Arrangements

• Based at the Melbourne CBD campus, and hybrid ways of working

About You
Join an exciting ARC Discovery Project exploring a fundamental question at the frontier of quantum technology: “Can quantum computers solve sensing problems?”

Working in collaboration with Cornell University, you will contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of quantum sensing and quantum computing, investigating which sensing challenges can be solved efficiently using classical and quantum approaches and developing new ways to integrate quantum sensors with quantum processors.

As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will undertake independent research across quantum complexity theory, quantum algorithms, optimisation and quantum sensing. Your work will contribute to the development of new computational frameworks and approaches spanning sensing optimisation, adaptive sensing protocols, short-depth quantum circuits, variational algorithms and error-corrected sensing. This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers, build your research profile and contribute to advances in an emerging area of quantum science and technology.

The successful candidate will be appointed at Academic Level A or B, depending on experience.

To be successful in this position, you will have as a minimum:

• A PhD, or evidence of imminent PhD completion, in quantum information, physics, mathematics, computer science, or a closely related discipline.

• Demonstrated research experience in quantum information theory, supported by a strong understanding of the mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics and quantum information science.

• Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the following areas: quantum complexity theory, quantum algorithms, or quantum error correction.

• Demonstrated ability to formulate and investigate complex research problems, apply appropriate analytical or numerical methods, interpret results, and contribute to the preparation of publications and research presentations.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative research environment, including the capacity to work constructively with colleagues, project leaders, students and external research partners.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to specialist and broader audiences.

Desirable:

• Research experience in quantum metrology, quantum sensing or quantum parameter estimation.

• Experience with convex or semidefinite optimisation, variational methods, or computational complexity.

• Proficiency in relevant scientific programming or quantum-software tools, such as Python, Julia, MATLAB, Mathematica, Qiskit, PennyLane or equivalent platforms.

• Experience mentoring or co-supervising research students and contributing to collaborative grant-funded projects.

Please Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children and National Police Check.

About the College

The STEM College holds a leading position and expertise in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics and health (STEM) fields.  We are uniquely positioned to influence and partner with industry, as never before. 

STEM College is a community of exceptional STEM researchers, teachers, inventors, designers and game-changers, supported by talented professional staff.  We offer higher education programs across all STEM disciplines at the Bachelor, Master and PhD levels, and ensure our students experience an

education that is work-aligned and life-changing. 

To Apply 

Please submit your CV and covering letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria for this position by clicking on the ‘Apply’ link at the top of this page.

For further information about this position, please see the Position Description hyperlinked below or contact Talent Team via email [email protected]. Please do not send your application to this contact.

Position Description: Research Fellow

Please note, if you are viewing this advert from an external site, please click ‘apply’ and you will be redirected to RMIT's Jobs website to access the Position Description at the bottom of the page. Due to recent upgrades, position description links may not work on LinkedIn advertisements.  

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Applications Close:

RMIT is an equal opportunity employer committed to being a child safe organisation. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community, and we strongly encourage applications from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community. 

In line with RMIT University’s commitment to a safe, respectful and inclusive environment, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence (GBV) risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.  All applicants will be required to complete a gender‑based violence declaration in accordance with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence.  Preferred candidates will also be required to undertake relevant pre‑employment background checks, including Working With Children Checks. Information provided will be treated confidentially and considered only for its relevance to the role and RMIT’s safety obligations.

At RMIT, we are committed to supporting adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, as well as during employment. We actively support and encourage people with disability to apply to RMIT (including alternate formats of application forms). To discuss adjustment requirements, please contact Dani, via [email protected] or visit our Careers page for more contact information - https://www.rmit.edu.au/careers.

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