Postdoctoral Fellow

Postdoctoral Fellow

• 562318

• Canberra / ACT, ACT, Australia, 2601

• Fixed Term

• Closing at: May 17 2026 - 23:55 AEST

Classification: Academic Level A
Salary package: $89,313 - $112,103 per annum plus 17% superannuation
Term: Full-time, Fixed Term (up to March 2028)

The Position

The Postdoctoral Fellow will contribute to a project funded under the DARPA Heterogeneous Architectures for Quantum Computing (HARQ) program, “A memory-enabled linear optics quantum processor”, with Principal Investigator A/Prof Rose Ahlefeldt. The project goal is to build and demonstrate a multifunctional device, using erbium-based crystals, capable of all telecom optical quantum state generation, storage, and processing operations required for a quantum-teleportation-based interconnect between quantum computers.

The successful candidate will be based at the University under the supervision of A/Prof. Rose Ahlefeldt, and

will be responsible for characterising the quantum processor device and implementing protocol improvements to enable high-rate generation of entangled photons; and building a single-photon detection apparatus to enable high-fidelity demonstrations of entanglement distribution at the project end. Beyond this focus, the successful candidate will contribute to all aspects of the program, including student supervision, publication and report writing, and communicating results to the funding body, international teams, and the public. They will have the opportunity to present results at national and international conferences and meetings with the broader HARQ performer teams.

This is a multi-disciplinary project, sitting at the intersection of quantum optics, atom-light physics, and solid state physics, with a long-term goal to commercialise the developed technology. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to be involved in this process, along with developing a broad range of quantum technology expertise.

The Person

To excel in this role, you will be a motivated experimental problem-solver, with:

• A PhD (or awarding of a PhD within six months of appointment commencement) in experimental optical, solid state, or quantum physics.
• Demonstrated expertise in an area related to optical quantum technology. Particularly desirable is expertise in rare earth or solid-state coherent spectroscopy; quantum optics; or quantum technology applications of atom-light physics.
• Experience with low temperature measurements in cryogenic systems, or single-photon-level optical measurements (continuous or discrete variable).
• A strong motivation to work with a collaborative team to deliver achieve project milestones throughout the project duration.
• Demonstrated ability to foster respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environments.

The School

The Research School of Physics at The Australian National University is a leading institution dedicated to advancing the field of physics and its practical applications. With a rich history spanning over 75 years, the School has a distinguished record of scientific discoveries and translational successes.

The College

The 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 and

For further information please contact, Rose Ahlefeldt, T: +61 2 6125 9274, E: [email protected].

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 . 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.

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