Research Fellow in Discrete Mathematics and Group Theory Full-time

Research Fellow in Discrete Mathematics and Group Theory

An exciting opportunity exists for a Research Fellow to join the School of Mathematics in the Faculty of Science. The position will be based at Monash University, with regular contact with MathQuEST Chief Investigators at other universities. This position at Monash University to undertake research on Discrete Mathematics and Group Theory as part of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Mathematics for Quantum Era Security & Trust (MathQuEST), under the guidance of Melissa Lee in collaboration with Chief Investigators across the Centre.

MathQuEST is an Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence led by Professor Nalini Joshi. Funded over seven years, the Centre brings nine collaborating Australian universities: The University of Sydney, Adelaide University, University of Melbourne, Monash University, Queensland University of Technology, University of Queensland, University of Technology Sydney, University of Western Australia, and University of Wollongong. The Centre's partner network comprises world-leading companies, universities, government, and professional bodies across 10 countries. A full list of partners is available on our website.

The MathQuEST vision is to undertake transformational interdisciplinary research founded on mathematics that will underpin new algorithms to protect our future, empower discovery, and increase trust in an age that will be shaped by quantum computers. Its core mission is to do so by creating a high-quality, inclusive and collaborative research culture to grow a mathematically trained, technologically agile workforce that will support Australia's sovereign capability. All members of the Centre will have the opportunity to develop communication skills, participate in outreach, and receive mentoring and training to engage with society and industry at all levels. The Centre will be grounded in a culture of inclusion, diversity, and engagement of talented people at all levels, to cultivate discovery. MathQuEST supports a flexible, family-friendly working environment.

In this project, the successful incumbent will investigate a range of influential questions in combinatorics, finite geometry and coding theory. These questions are all united by their formulations as matrix problems over finite (often binary) fields. The initial focus will be on the construction and classification of Hadamard matrices and the study of maximum distance separable (MDS) codes, including questions surrounding the MDS conjecture. The project will draw on a broad range of ideas from algebra and discrete mathematics, as well as a variety of computational techniques. The overarching goal is to increase understanding of fundamental mathematical structures with connections to quantum information and cryptography. The successful candidate will bring expertise in both discrete mathematics and group theory, along with computational skills, and will work collaboratively with the Chief Investigator across these research directions.

To be appointable into this role you will hold a PhD in pure mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field and have demonstrated experience in discrete mathematics and/or group theory, including the application of algebraic and computational approaches to mathematical research and programming proficiency relevant to the research topic.

About Monash University

At Monash, work feels different. There's a sense of belonging, from contributing to something ground breaking – a place where great things happen. We value difference and diversity. That's why we champion an inclusive and respectful workplace culture where everyone is supported to succeed. Some 20,000 staff work for Monash around the world. We have 95,000 students, four Australian campuses, and campuses in Malaysia and Indonesia. We also have a major presence in India and China, and a significant centre and research foundation in Italy. In our short history, we have skyrocketed through global university rankings and established ourselves consistently among the world's best tertiary institutions. We rank in the world's top-50 universities in rankings including the QS World University Rankings 2026. Together with our commitment to academic freedom, you will have access to quality research facilities, infrastructure, world-class teaching spaces, and international collaboration opportunities.

Today, we have the momentum to create the future we need for generations to come. Accelerate your change here. Monash supports flexible and hybrid working arrangements. We have a range of policies in place enabling staff to combine work and personal commitments. This includes supporting parents.

To Apply

For instructions on how to apply, please refer to 'How to apply for Monash Jobs'. Your application must address the Key Selection Criteria. Diversity is one of our greatest strengths at Monash. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, people with disabilities, neurodivergent people, and people of all genders, sexualities, and age groups. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment process at Monash. If you need any reasonable adjustments, please contact us at hr-recruitment@monash.edu in an email titled 'Reasonable Adjustments Request' for a confidential discussion. Your employment is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of all pre-employment and/or background checks required for the role, as determined by the University.

Enquiries: Melissa Lee, Senior Lecturer, School of Mathematics – Melissa.Lee@monash.edu

Position Description: Research Fellow

Applications Close: Sunday 10 January 2027, 11:55pm AEDT

Please submit your application as soon as possible for this fabulous opportunity to join Monash University. Interviews will be held as strong applicants are identified. Applications will close when the role has been filled.