25 Jul
The University of Queensland
Saint Lucia
- School of Mathematics and Physics
- Full-time, fixed-term position for up to 2 years
- Base salary will be in the range of $82,057.75 - $109,246.18 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A)
- Based at our St Lucia location
About This Opportunity
We are looking for an exceptional Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Scanning Probe Microscopy and Materials for Quantum Technology (SPMQT) Lab at The University of Queensland. This full-time, fixed-term position for two years is part of the Queensland Quantum Decarbonisation Alliance (QDA) — a major collaboration between leading Queensland universities and partners, including CSIRO and PsiQuantum.
The QDA is focused on advancing quantum technologies to support decarbonisation and clean energy goals.
The successful candidate will contribute to the atomic-scale characterisation of emerging materials using low-temperature scanning tunnelling microscopy/atomic force microscopy (LT-STM/AFM). A core aspect of the role involves scanning tunnelling spectroscopy (STS) to explore the electronic structure of these materials.
This position offers exciting opportunities for collaboration within UQ, across the QDA network, and with external research partners.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Research: Conduct high-quality research in line with discipline standards, publish in reputable outlets, pursue competitive funding, and contribute to knowledge translation and commercialisation. Develop a coherent research program and apply best-practice methodologies.
- Supervision and Researcher Development: Support and supervise Honours and Higher Degree by Research students, foster researcher development, and manage research staff effectively. Provide guidance, feedback, and resolve conflicts in line with university policies.
- Citizenship and Service:
Demonstrate UQ values through active participation, collaboration, and leadership. Support academic operations, contribute to internal committees, and begin building external partnerships with industry, government, and professional bodies.
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 UQ
As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged.
At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation.
UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.
As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.
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 including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.
About You
- Completion or near completion of a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanoscience, or a closely related discipline.
- An emerging research profile in quantum materials or scanning probe microscopy.
- Demonstrated experience with UHV instrumentation, particularly low-temperature STM/AFM.
- Expertise in STS and analysis of local electronic structure.
- Experience with STM-based measurements of superconducting materials.
- Evidence of publications in high-quality peer-reviewed journals and presentations at major conferences.
- Proficiency in data analysis and relevant tools (e.g. Python, MATLAB, WSxM, Gwyddion).
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach to research supervision and lab engagement.
The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including:
right to work in Australia and education check.
We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.
Questions?
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Peter Jacobson via [email protected]. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected], stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
Want to Apply?
We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload:
- Resume
- Cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section
Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion,
fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact [email protected].
Other Information
UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential.
The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.
Applications close 24 August 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-53488). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for early September.
Impress this employer describing Your skills and abilities, fill out the form below and leave Your personal touch in the presentation letter.