Research Associate in Quantum-Enabled Space Communications

UNSW; Canberra; On-site; AUD 118,000 - 127,000; Full time

Job summary

UNSW’s School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications invites applications for a Research Associate to develop quantum-enabled synchronisation algorithms for space-based platforms. You will contribute to research on quantum and classical optical communication systems, electronics instrumentation, FPGA design, and signal-processing algorithms for space-based synchronisation.

This position offers a dynamic research environment, collaboration with stakeholders, opportunities to publish,

Qualifications

• PhD or Masters in a related discipline; exceptional Honours considered.
• Knowledge of optical communications, quantum optics, quantum communication, and quantum key distribution desirable.
• Proven ability to undertake high‑quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• Commitment to UNSW's aims, objectives and values and to safety policies.

Responsibilities

• Develop quantum-enabled synchronisation algorithms for space-based platforms.
• Contribute to research on quantum and classical optical communication systems and advanced instrumentation.
• Engage with stakeholders and research partners, participate in conferences and supervise research students when required.
• Contribute to scholarly publications and research activities and work both independently and collaboratively.

Skills

Optical communications

Quantum optics

Academic research

Publications & conferences

Team collaboration

Interpersonal skills

Stakeholder communication

Education

PhD or Masters in related discipline

Honours degree (exceptional circumstances)

Job description

The Opportunity

The School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications has an opportunity for a Research Associate to develop quantum-enabled synchronisation algorithms for deployment on space-based platforms. You will contribute to research involving quantum and classical optical communication systems, advanced electronic instrumentation, electronic circuit design, FPGA programming and sophisticated signal-processing algorithms for space-based synchronisation applications. This role will contribute to the development of innovative communication and synchronisation technologies for future space-based systems.

This Job is based in Australia

The Opportunity

The School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications has an opportunity for a Research Associate to develop quantum-enabled synchronisation algorithms for deployment on space-based platforms. You will contribute to research involving quantum and classical optical communication systems, advanced electronic instrumentation, electronic circuit design, FPGA programming and sophisticated signal-processing algorithms for space-based synchronisation applications. This role will contribute to the development of innovative communication and synchronisation technologies for future space-based systems.

This position will provide you with the opportunity to further develop your research expertise while contributing to high-quality research outcomes. You will work independently and collaboratively, contribute to scholarly publications and research activities, engage with relevant stakeholders and research partners, participate in conferences and workshops, and assist with the supervision of research students where required.

This role reports to Professor Robert Malaney and has no direct reports.

• Salary: Level A - AUD $118,467 to $126,711 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Employment type: Full time
• Appointment type: Fixed-term contract until September 2027
• Location: Kensington - Sydney, Australia
• Due to project timelines, candidates must have valid working rights in Australia to be considered for this role.

About UNSW

UNSW is a world-leading institution recognised for its scale, prestige, and impact. With strong industry engagement and partnerships across sectors, UNSW provides a unique environment where research expertise translates into real-world outcomes. The University is home to cutting-edge research that drives innovation and addresses some of society’s most pressing challenges. For researchers, UNSW offers an outstanding platform to thrive — combining world-class facilities, collaborative networks, and a culture of innovation that supports research excellence, industry engagement, and meaningful societal impact.

The UNSW School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications is one of Australia's largest and most prestigious schools of its kind. Home to more than 1,500 students and over 40 academic staff, the School is internationally recognised for excellence in teaching, research, and industry engagement across electrical engineering, telecommunications, robotics, communications, and emerging technologies. For further information about our School, please visit: https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/electrical-engineering-telecommunications

Skills & Experience

• A PhD or Masters (in exceptional circumstances only an Honours degree) in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
• An understanding of optical communications, quantum optics, quantum communication, and quantum key distribution is desirable.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high-quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW's aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. The position description is available via JOBS@UNSW.

Contact

For role-specific enquiries, please contact Professor Robert Malaney

E: [e-mail]

For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Partner)

E: [e-mail]

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday, 11 October 2026

As part of our recruitment process candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening, which may include reference checks, qualification verification, right-to-work verification, and criminal history screening where relevant to the role.

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.