Research Fellow – Lead Entrepreneur Full-time

Research Fellow – Lead Entrepreneur

You will lead a flagship quantum bio-sensing project from lab prototype to commercial translation with Chromos Laboratories. You will oversee research delivery, build industry partnerships, and shape tools for neurological disease research and discovery. You will gain international exposure through conferences, collaborations and engagement with vibrant quantum technology and diamond communities.

What you will deliver:

• Lead the AEA Ignite quantum bio-sensing program, managing milestones, staff activities and integration with Chromos Laboratories' strategy.
• Develop and demonstrate a proof-of-concept diamond voltage imaging prototype for neurological disease research and drug discovery.
• Negotiate licensing agreements and help establish the commercial vehicle that translates University technologies into Chromos products.
• Publish high-quality research outputs, present findings at leading conferences, and pursue new collaborations and funding opportunities.
• Supervise and develop junior researchers and graduate students, ensuring effective workloads, induction, project delivery and safety compliance.

You may be a great fit if:

• Hold a PhD in physics or electrical engineering, with strong expertise in quantum sensing and related technologies.
• Demonstrate a strong publication record and national profile, with emerging international recognition in quantum sensing research.
• Secure external research funding through grants or collaborative projects, and manage research budgets, timelines and reporting.
• Build productive collaborations with industry and professional bodies, particularly within start-up, commercialisation or diamond technology communities.
• Apply excellent organisational and project management skills to deliver complex research milestones on time and to specification.
• Bring experience in diamond voltage imaging, charge sensing or diamond sensor fabrication, or strong capacity to learn quickly.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.

What we offer you!

• Build future financial security with 17% superannuation
• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
• Career development opportunities, including access to a range of tailored programs, such as Academic Women in Leadership, and learning platforms including LinkedIn Learning
• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance and well-being, including leading parental leave, gender affirmation leave and cultural leave
• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance, and access to unique cultural and recreational benefits such as discounts for the Melbourne Theatre Company
• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

Your new team – School of Physics

You will join the School of Physics, a leading centre for discovery-led and applied physical science. The School hosts world-class quantum research, including the ARC Centre of Excellence for Quantum Biotechnology. You will work within a collaborative, cross-disciplinary environment, supported by expert technical staff and strong industry connections. As part of the Faculty of Science, you contribute to research tackling major global scientific and societal challenges.

Be Yourself

The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. The diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

We're committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Visit our Indigenous staff page to learn more about our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at oied-hr@unimelb.edu.au.

Application essentials:

• Visit “apply with us” to learn more about the process, including tips and FAQs.
• You must have current valid work rights for Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
• A Working with Children Check is required for all positions. If successful, we will guide you through the process and reimburse you.
• Please upload your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest and experience as part of the application process.
• Please upload your responses to the Selection Criteria, found in the Position Description.

Want to know more?

• For queries related to this specific position, contact David Simpson at simd@unimelb.edu.au or Tel +61 3 8344 8216.
• For questions related to our recruitment process email Oliver Bukasa at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au.
• For recruitment adjustments contact Kim Groizard on +61 3 9035 3218 or at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments').”

Apply today, and join a community that's shaping the future.

Applications close: 13 March 2026 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.