The Opportunity

The research group of Professor Andrea Morello has an opening for a postdoctoral Research Associate / Senior Research Associate to conduct research in the field of quantum gravity and hybrid quantum systems. The group specialises in the development of quantum hardware based on the spin of implanted donors, integrated with silicon nanoelectronic devices. This research will expand its scope to the development of mechanical devices operating at the quantum level.

Your role will involve conducting experimental research, complemented by theoretical activities in collaboration with external partners. The research project aims to demonstrate quantum-mechanical coupling between a single nuclear spin in silicon and the quantized motion of a mechanical resonator. As the mass of the mechanical resonator increases, this novel hybrid quantum system will serve as a testbed for emerging theories exploring the interplay between quantum mechanics and gravity.

This position is best suited for candidates with a strong background in mechanical systems at the quantum limit, nano- and opto-mechanics, circuit-QED, and hybrid quantum systems.

The role reports to Scientia Professor Andrea Morello and has no direct reports.

• Salary
  • Research Associate - Level A – AUD $110,059 to $117,718 per annum + 17% superannuation
  • Senior Research Associate – Level B – AUD $123,620 to $145,730 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full time
• Fixed-term contract – 3 years, with possibility of extension
• Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

About us

UNSW is a large, research-intensive university with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. We are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

The group of Prof Andrea Morello (https://www.unsw.edu.au/research/fqt) is world-famous for its breakthrough demonstrations of quantum information processing with spins in silicon. We have established all the all the key results – high-fidelity quantum gates, exceptional coherence times, compatibility with large-scale manufacturing – that make semiconductor quantum computing possible. The group is diverse, vibrant, and supportive. 

The UNSW School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications (EE&T) is one of the largest and most prestigious schools of its kind in Australia. In the last 70 years, our school has grown from a purely teaching institution to one that has made important contributions to the development of electrical engineering in Australia and globally. The School is prominent within the Faculty of Engineering, currently with approximately 1300 students and 40 academic staff, with an operating budget of around $14 million. For further information about our School, please visit - https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/electrical-engineering-telecommunications

Skills & Experience

Research Associate (Level A)

• PhD (or soon to be awarded) in quantum physics, quantum engineering, or related area.
• Demonstrated track record of operating and measuring nano-mechanical devices that display quantum behaviour.         
• Demonstrated track record of designing and fabricating mechanical devices at the nanometre scale.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Senior Research Associate (Level B)

• PhD in quantum physics, quantum engineering, or related area.
• Demonstrated track record of operating and measuring nano-mechanical devices that display quantum behaviour.         
• Demonstrated track record of designing and fabricating mechanical devices at the nanometre scale;
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Experience in day-to-day supervision of PhD and undergraduate students.
• Strong track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity, and evidence of leadership in the writing of peer-reviewed publications.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated excellent track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact with clear evidence of the desire and ability to continually achieve research excellence as well as the capacity for research leadership.
• A track record of significant involvement with the profession and/or industry.
• A strong practice of maintaining open-source code repository.
• High level communication skills and ability to network effectively and interact with a diverse range of students and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Ability to build effective networks with colleagues and generate alternative funding and/or industry projects through effective liaison with external local and international researchers, industry and government.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.

To Apply: Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application.

Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Contact:

Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant

E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Tuesday 15 July 2025

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.