Research Fellow

Classification: Academic Level B

Salary package: $118,632 - $134,507 per annum plus 17% superannuation 

Term: Full time, Fixed term until 31 December 2026

The Position

The Research Fellow, based in the Research School of Physics, will contribute to advancing knowledge in quantum communication through high-quality, independent research. The role involves publishing innovative work in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at national and international conferences, and building collaborations with colleagues locally and abroad. The Fellow will play an active role in securing external research funding, supporting grant applications, and contributing to the School’s overall research profile.

In addition to research, the position includes significant teaching responsibilities at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This will involve delivering lectures and tutorials, preparing online content, undertaking assessment, and contributing to course coordination. The Fellow will supervise and mentor students across different levels and provide guidance to research support staff.

The role also encompasses engagement with outreach initiatives to industry, government, and the community, while fostering productive workplace relationships and upholding high academic standards across research, teaching, and service.  

The Person

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in optics, preferably quantum optics, with demonstrated expertise in experimental quantum technologies. They will have a strong record of innovative research, particularly in non-Gaussian quantum light sources, squeezed light, and quantum information applications, evidenced by high-quality publications and conference contributions. The successful candidate will bring experience in securing, or contributing to, competitive research funding and show commitment to delivering impactful outcomes.

A passion for teaching and mentoring is essential, with the ability to engage students across undergraduate and postgraduate levels while supporting research supervision. The candidate will be a strong team player, able to collaborate effectively, meet deadlines, and encourage colleagues in solving complex problems. They will also demonstrate excellence in communication, leadership in experimental quantum optics programs, and the ability to translate research into practical outcomes through industry engagement and commercial funding opportunities.

The School

The Research School of Physics is a leading centre of optics, material science and quantum research in Australia. Researchers have a tradition of excellence in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges facing the quantum revolutions, including developing fault tolerant quantum computing units, the world leading quantum optical resources and quantum memories, and discovering next generation quantum materials. 

The College

The ANU College of Science and Medicine encompasses the disciplines of: Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Environment and Society, Mathematics, Physics, and Science Communication and is also home to a number of cross-disciplinary and specialist Institutes and Centres.  Staff and students within the ANU College of Science and Medicine conduct research and deliver a research-led education program that encompasses the breadth of the sciences, supported by extensive international networks and by world-class facilities. 

To find out more about the Science at ANU community, follow us on social media at Instagram and Facebook

For further information please contact Dr Rose Ahlefeldt, T: +61 414625229, E: rose.ahlefeldt@anu.edu.au

ANU values diversity and inclusion and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to people of all backgrounds and identities.  For more information about staff equity at ANU, click here. For enquiries about the application process, or if you require reasonable adjustment to apply for this role, please contact the hiring manager on the above listed details.

Application information

In order to apply for this role please make sure that you upload the following documents:

• A statement addressing the selection criteria.
• A current curriculum vitae (CV) which includes the names and contact details of at least three referees (preferably including a current or previous supervisor). If your CV does not include referees you can complete these online when prompted in the application form.
• Other documents, if required.

Applications which do not address the selection criteria may not be considered for the position.

Please note: The successful candidate must have rights to live and work in this country and will be required to undergo a background check during the recruitment process.  An offer of employment is conditional on satisfactory results.