About This Opportunity 
This is a full-time, fixed-term position for three years, based at The University of Queensland, School of Mathematics and Physics. The position 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 that support decarbonisation and clean energy goals.
The successful applicant will contribute to the computational modelling and design of Prussian blue analogues, spin-crossover metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and related materials using hybrid classical-quantum algorithms. A key component of the role involves using first-principles methods that capture strong electronic correlations, such as DFT+DMFT, to understand the electronic properties of these materials.
The role offers opportunities for collaboration within the QDA, UQ, and with external partners, including on the development of hybrid classical-quantum algorithms for strongly correlated materials.
 
Key responsibilities include: 
Research: Establish a research program, collaborate on research projects, seek and manage research funding, publish in reputable journals, utilize best practice research methodologies, and participate in project discussions.
Supervision and Researcher Development: Supervise students, recruit and manage employees, provide performance feedback and training, resolve conflicts, and ensure correct remuneration and benefits.
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 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, or a closely related discipline.
An emerging profile in research in computational condensed matter physics, materials science, or chemistry.
Demonstrated expertise in electronic structure methods, with a particular focus on strongly correlated electron systems.
Proficient scientific programming skills, including experience with relevant programming languages or computational frameworks.
Strong interest in method development, including algorithms and/or scientific software development, with a willingness to contribute to codebases or tool creation.
Evidence of publications in high-quality peer-reviewed journals and presentations at major conferences.
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 Professor Ben Powell powell@physics.uq.edu.au and Dr Carla Verdi c.verdi@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.

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 talent@uq.edu.au.

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 Sunday 24 August 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-53484). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for early September.

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