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 developing classical-quantum interfaces and quantum control for trapped-ion quantum computation and simulation. This position is funded by the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQuS).
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 ( ), 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), and the US Air Force of Scientific Research (AFOSR). Furthermore, the University is part of the Sydney Quantum Academy ( ). You will also have the opportunity to collaborate with local and external partners supported by major international projects, including cutting-edge industrial partners such as quantum technology startup Q-CTRL. Details of recent publications and ongoing research projects are available at
The project will focus on further improving the quantum-classical interface between a trapped-ion system and ultra-low phase noise cryogenic sapphire oscillator (CSO) to the next level by building on a range of successful previous projects that demonstrate record-breaking trapped ions’ coherence times and high-fidelity quantum gates. Furthermore, the successful candidate will have an opportunity to contribute to a variety of activities through collaboration with PhD students, Postdoctoral Researchers, and senior research leaders on topics that include:
exploring new programmable quantum simulation protocols using linear ion chains, focusing on the simulation of chemical dynamics.
exploring new techniques in the control and measurement of strongly interacting multi-dimensional quantum systems by leveraging insights from atomic and quantum physics.
developing novel measurement protocols to employ quantum technology for tests of fundamental physics.
exploring advanced quantum control techniques for qudit- and bosonic-based quantum computations.
developing resource-efficient quantum characterisation, verification, and validation by leveraging insights from the fields of robotic control and machine learning.
Your primary responsibilities will include conducting experimental measurements, developing new hardware for system enhancement, and exploring novel protocols, e.g., machine-learning techniques, to stabilise and characterise the interface between trapped ions and CSO. You will collaboratively develop novel hardware with our partners at the University of Western Australia, Prof. Michael Tobar and Prof. Eugene Ivanov. You will also get the opportunity to mentor postgraduate and undergraduate students, overseeing laboratory projects and students daily.
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.
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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.
The commencement level will be determined based on the candidate’s skills, experience and knowledge.
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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
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Applications Close Saturday 10 February 2024 11:59 PM