Research projects on offer

Our Sydney network of quantum experts are seeking PhD, Honours and Master students to work on various quantum science and technology research projects. Projects suit both experimentalists or theorists and driven individuals with backgrounds across a range of disciplines such as physics, computer science, engineering, chemistry or mathematics.

Applications for the Master of Research Scholarships at Macquarie University are now open to domestic students from any discipline—but your project must explore a quantum-related topic. Please refer to the project list below—note that it is not exhaustive. Applicants are also welcome to propose their own quantum-related research projects.

Our PhD scholarship program offers an array of research projects spanning quantum science and technology across our partner universities. To find a research project, filter projects by university or research specialisation at the PhD level. Please note this list is not exhaustive. You can also use our database to search for experts/supervisors based on their research interests and discuss other opportunities. We recommend contacting a prospective supervisor in advance of applying for our scholarship programs.

How to use the filter - view by university, study level or use the general search field to view by quantum research field e.g. communication, sensing or computing/computation.

  • Advanced laser stabilization technique for miniaturised optical clocks

    Prof Richard Mildren, Dr Osama Terra, Prof David Spence

    Narrow linewidth lasers are important tools in applications such as atom trapping and cooling, qubit control, optical clocks and quantum sensing. Their stabilization currently cumbersome systems involving optics under ultra-high vacuum and at cryogenic temperatures to achieve the exacting precision required. This project investigates a novel concept that uses laser action in diamond to simultaneously narrow laser linewidth and stabilize frequency. The approach aims to radically reduce the laser system size, to enable field or space-borne quantum applications that require portable systems.

    For more information, contact the project supervisor: Prof Richard Mildren
    This project would suit: Students interested in building and experimentation in novel quantum and optical experiments. The project allows plenty of scope to allow student input on directions, industry participation and intellectual property creation.
    Macquarie University
    PhD,
  • Advanced microwave engineering for spin qubit control

    Prof Andrea Morello

    The project aims to apply advanced microwave engineering methods to the control of spin-based qubits in silicon. The aim is to solve two key limitations that still affect their performance: (i) operation speed, and (ii) readout and initialization fidelity. The first is determined by the amount of microwave power delivered to the quantum chip –higher power yields faster operations. The second depends on the temperature of the chip – colder temperature initializes the qubits to their lowest-energy state with higher probability.

     

    For more information, contact the project supervisor: Prof Andrea Morello
    This project would suit: This would suit a student with a strong background in physics or electrical engineering
    UNSW Sydney
    PhD,
  • Advancing quantum computing with Diraq (Next Generation Quantum Graduates Program) 

    Dr Andre Saraiva, Industry Placement with Diraq

    This project is part of the CSIRO Next Generation Quantum Graduates Scholarship Program (NGQGP). Diraq is a Sydney-based quantum computing company, delivering revolutionary quantum computing to the world, based on existing silicon chip technology. This immersive PhD project at Diraq provides students with hands-on experience in silicon MOS based quantum computing. Under expert guidance, participants contribute to cutting-edge projects, receive tailored mentorship, and engage in specialised training, enriching both their academic journey and industry prospects. 

    For more information, contact the project supervisor: Dr Andre Saraiva
    This project would suit: An exceptional student holding an Honours or Masters qualification in electrical engineering, physics, or a relevant field, possessing strong knowledge of semiconductor or quantum physics.
    UNSW Sydney
    PhD,
  • Analog trapped-ion quantum simulators for chemical dynamics

    A/Prof Ivan Kassal, Dr Ting Rei Tan, Prof Michael Biercuk

    Quantum simulators aim to describe the properties of quantum systems that would otherwise be too difficult to simulate on ordinary computers. In particular, analog quantum simulators—which do not require universal, programmable quantum computers—are likely to be the first practical quantum computing devices.

    Our goal is to simulate the outcomes of chemical reactions that are beyond the capabilities of conventional computers, which would have transformative impacts from materials and energy science to drug discovery.

    For more information, contact the project supervisor: A/Prof Ivan Kassal
    This project would suit: Students with background in either chemistry or physics
  • Atomically thin van-der Waals materials

    Prof Alex Hamilton, Dr Feixiang Xiang

    Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms with honeycomb lattice structure, shows many exotic physics and promising properties for device applications. Stacking different layers together provides a degree of freedom to change electronic properties of graphene, such as electronic band structures. In this project, the successful applicant will work with a team from QED group from School of Phyiscs at UNSW to explore effect of different stacking order on electronic properties of ABA- and ABC- stacked trilayer graphene. The successful applicant will participate in fabrication of van der Waals heterostructure and measuring their electronic properties in an environment of ultracold temperatures and high magnetic fields.

    For more information, contact the project supervisor: Prof Alex Hamilton
    This project would suit: An experimentally focussed materials scientist, chemist or physicist
    UNSW Sydney
    Honours, Undergrad,