Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Atomic Theory Full-time

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

We are looking for an exceptional Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Precision Atomic Theory Group 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 development and implementation of precision atomic many-body methods for multi-valence-electron atoms, with a focus on transition metals of interest for spin-crossover metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). The applicant will be involved in the development of classical and hybrid classical-quantum algorithms for treating the correlations.

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.

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.

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.

Completion or near completion of a PhD in theoretical atomic physics or related discipline.

An emerging profile in research in theoretical atomic physics or related discipline, including publications in high-quality peer-reviewed journals and presentations at major conferences.

Demonstrated high-level mathematical and computer programming skills.

Where PhD has been conferred, demonstrated ability to plan, lead, execute, and publish high-impact papers over a sustained period since the conclusion of the PhD.

Demonstrated high standard of interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Candidates who do not meet all the selection criteria are still strongly encouraged to apply.

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.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Associate Professor Jacinda Ginges via j.ginges@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.

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.

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-53279). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for early September.