Research Fellow - Quantum Foundations
- Full-time
- Primary Location (Campus): Gold Coast
- Employment Type: Full Time
- Department ID: ESC - Applied Mathematics, Statistics and Physics - ESA
- Appointment Type: Fixed Term
Company Description
Every institution values excellence. What matters most is why.
Griffith was created to be a different type of university. You’ll find we’re about leading research, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education. But what sets us apart is why those things matter and how you’ll achieve them.
Why? Griffith brings together exceptional minds like yours from across the globe and from all walks of life. Here, we do incredible work, questioning and challenging, always in the pursuit of excellence.
Job Description
About the Opportunity
Griffith University’s Quantum and Advanced Technologies Research Institute (QUATRI) undertakes world-leading research in quantum theory, quantum experiments, and micro- and nano-technology. The Institute comprises more than 100 researchers with numerous collaborations. Our research encompasses many areas, including quantum information processing, quantum foundations, ultrafast quantum processes, microfluidics, nanomaterials, and compound semiconductor fabrication. The Institute hosts a node of the Australian Research Council’s Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computer Performance and Integration, and partners with many outside bodies including Psi-Quantum and The Australian Nanofabrication Facility. It is the premier place in Australia for quantum foundations research (theory and experiment).
Key Responsibilities
We are seeking a Research Fellow in quantum foundations to work on the externally funded project, “Advancing Quantum Experiments to Test Reality Beyond Bell’s Theorem” held by Prof. Howard Wiseman, Assoc. Prof. Eric Cavalcanti and Dr Nora Tischler at Griffith University. This grant builds on the Local Friendliness No-Go theorem published by us and co-workers (Bong et al., Nature Physics 2020), in particular with new experiments inspired by it, and working out the implications of the theorem and variations on it. The job will include conceptual analysis in quantum foundations, analytic calculations in quantum information theory, and may require coding on both classical and quantum computers.
Success in this role requires collaboration with theorists Wiseman and Cavalcanti, and engagement with experiments led by Tischler and international collaborator Dr William Zeng (Unitary Foundation).
About you
- To be successful within this role, you will hold a PhD in Physics, or Philosophy of Physics, or equivalent qualifications/work experience in a relevant field.
- You will have demonstrated research experience in quantum foundations or fundamental aspects of quantum mechanics, especially quantum information.
- You will have a record of publication in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.
- You will have the passion and a demonstrated ability to undertake and communicate high-quality research.
- You will have high-level interpersonal skills, including verbal and written communication skills, which enable you to collaborate and work effectively as a team member.
- In addition, you will have a high level of self-motivation and the ability to take initiative and work independently.
What we can offer
The position will have a primary location at Griffith University’s Gold Coast Campus (with Cavalcanti), or its Brisbane South Campus, Nathan (with Wiseman), to be negotiated with the successful applicant before the start date. But the appointee will be expected to visit both campuses weekly.
This is a full time fixed-term position for 18 months. Sponsorship may be offered for the right candidate.
Salary Range
Research Fellow Grade 1 – Base salary range - $88,689.84 - $103,888.71 + 17% superannuation (pension fund).
Additional Information
Why join Griffith?
As a values-led organisation, at Griffith University, we've worked hard to create a dynamic and strong organisational culture. We offer:
- Wide range of Learning and Development opportunities
- Mix of on campus and work from home options available and a supportive work environment
- Salary packaging options and corporate health discounts
- Generous leave entitlements including paid parental leave and leave loading
- Support with future learning opportunities through our educational staff assistance scheme
- Opportunities for internal mobility
- Health Safety and Wellbeing initiatives – on campus Gym facilities
At Griffith, we’re committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all - whoever you are and wherever you’re from. If you require any accommodations, we welcome you to let us know so we can work with you to participate fully in our recruitment experience.
Griffith's strategic goals are to increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM)
Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page. Our University is committed to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive community for all. In alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (2025), Griffith University includes a declaration as part of the recruitment journey to uphold the values and standards of our community. Griffith University also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of modern slavery. For more information, please refer to Griffith’s Modern Slavery Policy.
How to apply
Please submit your application online and ensure it includes the following:
- A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role, please refer to the “about you” above and the position description.
- Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details
- References are required to be included within applications, noting that referees will not be contacted without permission.
For application and recruitment advice please reach out to Laura Whitworth, Talent Acquisition Partner on [email protected]
Closing date: 13th May at 11:59pm. All applications must be submitted online.