Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Fellow - Theoretical and Computational Atomic Physics
Job Description
Full time, fixed term position for up to 2 years
Academic Level A / Level B
Based at our St Lucia location
About This Opportunity
We are looking for an exceptional Postdoctoral Research Fellow or Research Fellow to join the Precision Atomic Theory Group at The University of Queensland. This full-time, fixed-term position for up to two years is funded by an ARC Discovery Project "Nuclear structure and precision tests of fundamental physics in atoms", with an aim to provide new information about the structure of nuclei and to increase the discovery potential of precision atomic and molecular experiments searching for new fundamental particles and interactions.
The successful candidate will work with Associate Professor Jacinda Ginges and Dr. Benjamin Roberts on development and application of atomic methods and computer codes for heavy many-electron atoms, ions, and exotic muonic atoms at the forefront of precision theory. This position offers exciting opportunities for collaboration with leading theorists and experimentalists around the world, including with Dr. Natalia Oreshkina from the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics in Heidelberg.
Key responsibilities will include:
1. Research
Produces quality research outputs consistent with discipline norms by publishing or exhibiting in high quality outlets.
Participate in applications for competitive research funding to support projects and activities.
Work with colleagues in the development of joint research projects and applications for competitive research funding support.
Contribute to progressing towards transfer of knowledge, technology and practices to research end users through translation, including commercialisation of UQ intellectual property.
Develop a coherent research program and apply best-practice methodologies.
In addition to the above, at Level B the appointee will:
Develop an independent and/or team-based research program that achieves national recognition and impact in the relevant research area.
Produce quality research outputs with a leadership role in some publications, including in national research journals, refereed publications, and conference proceedings.
Participate in or contribute as a Chief Investigator (often in collaboration with more experienced researchers) in applications for competitive research funding, including actively seeking, obtaining, and managing such funding.
This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.
About You
Level A
Completion or near completion of a PhD in theoretical atomic physics or related discipline.
An emerging profile in research in theoretical or computational atomic physics or related discipline, including publications in high-quality peer-reviewed journals and presentations at major conferences.
Demonstrated high-level mathematical skills.
Demonstrated high-level skills in computer programming and software development, including a track record of developing, maintaining, and applying research software.
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.
In addition to the above, at Level B the appointee will have:
A growing research profile in theoretical or computational atomic physics or related discipline and developing reputation, including a track record of publications in reputed refereed journals and presentations at conferences.
Evidence of advanced programming and software development expertise, with demonstrated ability to design, develop, and maintain high-quality software systems.
Evidence of successfully seeking, obtaining, and managing external research funding.
A growing record of supervision of Honours and Higher Degree by Research students to successful completion.
Experience in meaningful internal service roles, alongside active contributions to external engagement activities.
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. 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, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.
Interested?
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Associate Professor Jacinda Ginges via [email protected].
For application enquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected], stating the job reference number in the subject line.
When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.
Other Information
Pre-employment checks may include: verification of the right to work in Australia and qualifications. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.
Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights, however upfront costs will still be expected to be covered. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.
We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing [email protected] or calling +61 7 3365 2623.
Applications close Sunday 12 July 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-54961).
Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for mid-late July 2026.