Research Fellow in Physics

School of Mathematics and Physics

• 2 x Full-time (100%), fixed-term positions for up to 3 years
• Academic Level A / Level B
• Based at our St Lucia location

The School of Mathematics and Physics invites applications for two research-focused Postdoctoral Research Fellow / Research Fellow positions in theoretical quantum physics. This recruitment comprises two distinct roles, each aligned to an Australian Research Council Discovery Project exploring nonequilibrium quantum systems. One role focuses on nonequilibrium superfluids, with particular emphasis on controlling superfluid transport through spatially engineered dissipation, while the second role focuses on quantum thermodynamics, addressing fundamental questions in quantum statistical mechanics and quantum many-body systems.

Working within a highly collaborative, inquisitive and globally connected research environment, you will contribute to advancing foundational knowledge with relevance to emerging quantum technologies, while engaging with a vibrant community of researchers and higher degree students.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Research: Contribute to and expand an established UQ research program, collaborate on research projects, seek and manage research funding, publish in reputable journals, utilise best practice research methodologies, and participate in project discussions.
• Supervision and Researcher Development: Recruit and supervise students, provide performance feedback and training, resolve conflicts.
• Citizenship and Service: Develop partnerships, demonstrate leadership through mentoring, engage in internal service roles and committees, perform administrative functions, provide support to colleagues, and uphold university values.

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.

For further information, please click here to view the information booklet.

About You

• Completion (or near completion for Level A) of a PhD in theoretical quantum physics, condensed matter physics, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated capacity to produce high-quality research outputs, evidenced by publications or equivalent scholarly contributions.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and conceptual skills relevant to nonequilibrium quantum systems or quantum thermodynamics.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Experience or demonstrated potential in supervising or mentoring students or junior researchers.
• Alignment with UQ’s values, including a clear commitment to equity, diversity and inclusive research practices.

Please view the above recruitment booklet for more information on the About You section for each level.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will work alongside some of the world’s brightest minds in an environment that values curiosity, ambition and collaboration. UQ is a Group of Eight university, recognised globally for research excellence and impact, and provides access to world-class facilities, interdisciplinary networks, and strong institutional support for early and mid-career researchers.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad: from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Matthew Davis via mdavis@uq.edu.au.

For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume, cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section and a short statement (up to one page) explaining how your expertise and past research experience connect to one or both of the research projects, and what specific directions you might wish to pursue within these themes. Please also specify in your application whether you are applying for one or both positions.

As part of the Selection Process, shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview and asked to give a brief, five-minute presentation on a recent piece of their research relevant to their application.

Interviews will be conducted via Zoom.

Other Information

Pre-employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia and qualification check. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights and a relocation support package, however upfront costs will still be expected to be covered. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close 28 May 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-62571).

Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for mid-June.