PhD Scholarship - Centre for Quantum Technology Theory

Location
Melbourne VIC
 
Full job description
Centre for Quantum Technology Theory (CQTT)
Full-time, fixed term (3 year) position at our Hawthorn campus
Annual stipend $34,700


About the Role
We are seeking a highly motivated and talented PhD student to join a cutting-edge project led by Professor Xia-Ji Liu, funded by the Australian Research Council. This position offers the chance to work at the forefront of theoretical physics at the Centre for Quantum Technology Theory (CQTT) — a leading research hub pushing the boundaries of quantum science.

This fully funded, three-year PhD scholarship (full-time) provides a unique opportunity to explore the next frontier of photonic quantum technologies.

About the Project:
Making Strongly Interacting Photons investigates a remarkable class of particles called polaritons — hybrids of light and matter that can flow without resistance, mimicking the behaviour of quantum fluids. These systems, known as quantum fluids of light, promise revolutionary applications in low-energy photonic devices, including ultra-efficient lasers and all-optical transistors.

Our goal is to uncover the elusive physics of strongly interacting polaritons far from equilibrium, bringing the vision of room-temperature superfluid light closer to reality. This research could position Australia as a global leader in the commercialisation of next-generation photonic technologies.

Key Research Themes:

Determining the polariton–polariton interaction strength
Mapping the non-equilibrium phase diagram under strong light–matter coupling
Investigating polariton-polarons and emergent quasiparticles in imbalanced regimes

What We’re Looking For:
We’re looking for a driven and capable student who is eager to tackle complex, high-impact problems in quantum physics.

The ideal candidate will have:
A strong background in theoretical physics, especially in ultracold quantum gases or condensed matter theory
Proven analytical, computational, and modelling skills
Experience with numerical simulations of quantum or many-body systems
A deep curiosity about the fundamental nature of light and matter


Qualifications
Honours and Master degree in quantum physics, theoretical physics, and condensed matter physics.

About Swinburne University of Technology
Swinburne’s strategy draws upon our understanding of future challenges. We choose to build Swinburne as the prototype of a new and different university – one that is truly of Technology, of Innovation and of Entrepreneurship. We are committed to a differentiated university proposition in education and research.

To Apply
Please submit your CV and cover letter addressing your suitability for this position. To review the Position Description and to apply, please scroll down to the bottom of the page.

If you are viewing this advert from an external site, please click ‘apply’ and you will be redirected to Swinburne’s Jobs website to access the Position Description at the bottom of the page.

For further information regarding this scholarship and related project, please contact Professor Xiaji Liu | xiajiliu@swin.edu.au

Please Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children Check.

If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application, please contact the Swinburne Talent Acquisition Team on talentacquisition@swin.edu.au

Applications Close: Friday 1 August 2025, at 11.00pm (AEDT)

Swinburne offers flexible working options contained in our leave and parenting/carer policies to support work-life balance.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Swinburne has become a world-class university, driving social and economic impacts through science, technology, and innovation. As a dual-sector university, our vision is for people and technology working together to build a better world.

Central to our vision is our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We pride ourselves on being an equal opportunity employer focused on attracting, retaining, and developing great talent. We work to remove barriers related to gender identity, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and age.

We strongly encourage applicants from diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our Moondani Toombadool Centre leads our Indigenous education and culture at Swinburne, guided by community wisdom and leadership.

We support applicants with disabilities. Adjustments can be requested at any time during the recruitment process. For Reasonable Adjustment requests, including accessible formats for the PD, application form or any other document, please contact DCR@swin.edu.au or call +61 3 9214 3550.

Please note the above number and DCR email address are for disability or reasonable adjustments queries only. General enquiries about the role can be sent to talentacquisition@swin.edu.au (general enquiries will not be answered by phone).

Victoria’s Commitment to Action: Improving international student employment outcomes.
As a signatory to Victoria’s Commitment to Action, Swinburne seeks to remove barriers to international graduate employment. We welcome and encourage applications from international graduates. #LI-SW
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