Research Associate - Physics

UNSW; Princeton (CA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

UNSW Sydney is inviting applications for a fixed-term research position in the School of Physics to advance strategies for integrating plasmonic nano-tweezers with quantum sensing using near-surface nitrogen-vacancy defect centres. The role emphasizes experimental nanofabrication, optical instrumentation design, and optical modelling within a collaborative team.

The successful applicant will contribute to an ARC Discovery Project, collaborate with Melbourne groups, and work on building nanoscale

Qualifications

• PhD in related discipline required or equivalent research experience.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high-quality academic research.
• Strong collaboration, communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Contribute independently or as part of a team in collaborative research to advance nanoscale optical trapping with diamond-based quantum sensing.
• Undertake research projects under guidance of a research leader and contribute to development of research activities.
• Develop experimental instrumentation and nanofabrication processes for near-field trapping.
• Disseminate research outcomes through conferences and journals; supervise students as required.
• Maintain alignment with health and safety policies and UNSW codes of conduct.

Job description

• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best

This Job is based in Australia

• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

The School of Physics is one of the leading Physics schools in Australia. It offers a world class undergraduate physics degree, as well as a postgraduate PhD research program for over 50 students. 33 academic staff conduct theoretical and experimental research in quantum physics, astrophysics, fundamental physics; and condensed matter physics. UNSW is an international leader in quantum computing research and hosts the ARC Centre for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology.

This position supports an ARC Discovery Project, working in collaboration with groups at the University of Melbourne, to develop strategies for the integration of plasmonic nano-tweezers with quantum sensing using near-surface nitrogen-vacancy defect centres. The project is largely experimental in nature and will include elements of nanofabrication, optical instrumentation design, and optical modelling.

THIS ROLE IS LOCATED IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA.

About The Role

• $118K - $126K plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 18 months
• Full-time (35 hours per week)

Specific Responsibilities For This Role Include

• Contribute independently or as a team member in collaborative research with a focus to enhance the quality of research outcomes in the discipline area.
• Conduct research (as per the norms of the discipline) and/or enable research teams to create scholarly output that is recognised by peers.
• Undertake specific research project/s under the guidance of a research leader and contribute to development of research activities.
• Support the dissemination of research outcomes through appropriate channels and outlets.
• Undertake discipline-appropriate research activities, e.g. surveys, literature reviews, data gathering and/or recording of results using appropriate research methods.
• Participate in and/or present at conferences and/or workshops relevant to the project as required.
• Assist with the supervision of research students in the research area where required.
• Develop experimental instrumentation for incorporating nanoscale optical trapping with diamond-based quantum sensing.
• Use cleanroom techniques to design and fabricate nano-structured photonic devices suitable for near-field trapping.
• Perform assays to quantify the magnetic response of optically trapped objects, including single proteins.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others.

About The Successful Applicant

• A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
• Experience in the use of nanofabrications techniques for creating nanophotonic structures and devices.
• Experience with building custom optical instrumentation with computer interfacing for microscopy applications.
• Experience conducting biological assays 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.

Contact: Peter Reece E: [e-mail]

Applications close: October 26th, 2026

Find Out More About Working At UNSW At Www.unsw.edu.au

UNSW aspires to be the exemplar Australian university and employer of choice for people from diverse backgrounds. UNSW aims to ensure equality in recruitment, development, retention and promotion of staff and that no-one is disadvantaged on the basis of their gender, cultural background, disability, sexual orientation or identity or Indigenous heritage. We encourage everyone who meets the selection criteria to apply.

UNSW partners with Australia’s leading diversity organisations, networks, and campaigns. Please refer to UNSW’s diversity offerings for further information on our flexible work and leave options, and support for carers (childcare, parent rooms, parental leave).