QUROPE Quantum Information Processing and Communication in Europe

Location

 CUDOS, the ARC Centre of Excellence for Ultrahigh bandwidth Devices for Optical Systems, is conducting breakthrough research in some of the most vibrant areas of modern physics and photonics, including optical quantum information processing, nonlinear optics in metamaterials and plasmonics, slow light effects in nonlinear optics and hybrid optical systems.  The Centre’s research program, combining seven Australian universities and partners around the world, has been funded at a substantial level for seven years commencing 2011. Our target applications include photonic circuits for terabit per second optical signal processing, mid-infrared photonics and integrated quantum photonics.

CUDOS and our international partners have recently made significant breakthroughs in the integration of quantum photonics, using slow light-enhanced nonlinearity in a silicon photonic crystal waveguide to demonstrate the world’s smallest photon pair source. Our team has also achieved heralded pair generation in highly nonlinear glass waveguides, and constructed the first 3D quantum logic circuits.

To continue this momentum, the Macquarie University node of the Centre is seeking an outstanding experimentalist to join our effort in Quantum Integrated Photonics, developing new directions in integrated quantum science and engaging closely with our theoretical program at Macquarie and other universities.  The position is in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Macquarie University  (Sydney, Australia).

Role:

The successful candidate will work closely with Associate Professor Mike Steel and Professor Michael Withford developing waveguide devices and circuits for quantum photonics.  The position is closely tied to core CUDOS goals in quantum integrated photonics built on the two themes of quantum optical processing in linear waveguide chips and quantum state generation in nonlinear waveguide chips. The former includes quantum optical processing in novel 2D and 3D waveguide chips inscribed by femtosecond lasers. The latter includes photon pair generation by spontaneous quadratic and cubic processes, as well as frequency conversion of quantum states.  There is potential to combine these activities into novel hybrid devices.

The candidate will be a key member of a large experimental and theoretical team that spans the CUDOS partnership. The applicant will conduct independent research designing, developing and characterising integrated quantum optical chips for applications in quantum information processing. Likely areas of research include tunable and reconfigurable quantum logic circuits, quantum emulation and quantum random walks. The applicant will also work closely with researchers from several other CUDOS nodes on collaborative projects in integrated quantum photonics.

For further details about our work, see http://www.physics.mq.edu.au/research/phottheory/.

Essential Selection Criteria:

·         A PhD in experimental optical physics or a related area

·         Expertise in quantum optical experimentation including experience with photon pair sources and photon correlation measurements

·         Expertise with guided wave optical experimentation including experience with fibre optics and planar optical devices

·         Knowledge and experience designing, building and characterising optical systems

·         A sound theoretical understanding of principles of quantum optics and key ideas in quantum information

·         A track record of published original research in optical physics

·         A track record of working effectively in a team environment

·         A track record of working towards and realising project milestones

·         Demonstrated ability to communicate research results effectively, both orally and in written form

Desirable Selection Criteria:

·         Experience with techniques of optical micro/nano-fabrication such as lithography, deposition or femtosecond laser modification of dielectric materials.

·         Experience in the theory or modelling of optical waveguides

·         Experience with optical switching or optical tuning techniques based on thermo-optic or electro-optic effects.

·         A track record of participation in student supervision

 In addition, applicants at level B must demonstrate:

·         At least 2 years of relevant post-doctoral experience.

·         A significant record of published original research in optical physics. 

 ·         A record of independently identifying and pursuing new research ideas.

The Macquarie University node of CUDOS is located within the Department of Physics and Astronomy, and consists of 4 continuing academics, 4 postdoctoral researchers and around 12 PhD students.  We conduct experimental and theoretical research in the areas of femtosecond laser-writing of integrated quantum photonics, integrated waveguides and lasers, nanoplasmonics, and photonic crystals/metamaterials.  The group has outstanding fabrication, characterisation and computing resources and is part of the MQPhotonics Research Centre, one of Australia’s largest research programs in optical science, with 14 permanent academic staff working in optics and nanophotonics.  

For more information about CUDOS quantum activities please visit http://physics.mq.edu.au/research/phottheory/?q=research, and for general information about the whole CUDOS program, see http://www.cudos.org.au.

Enquiries: Associate Professor Michael Steel on +61 2 9850 8916 or michael [dot] steel [at] mq [dot] edu [dot] au

Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed-term for a period of 3 years. Probationary conditions may apply.

Package:  Level A Step 6 base salary from $74,029 - $79,337 per annum, plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loading.

Package: Level B from $83,623 - $98,940 per annum, plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loading.

Applications must address the essential and desirable criteria specifically listed in the pre screening questions, as well as provide a detailed curriculum vitae and publication list. Applicants should also indicate the level for which they are applying, or whether they wish to be considered for both levels.

Applications close: Sunday, 10:59pm Eastern Standard Time (Sydney time), 8 April 2012. 

Macquarie University is an EO Employer committed to diversity and social inclusion. Applications are encouraged from people with a disability; women (particularly for senior and non-traditional roles); Indigenous Australians, people who identify as GLBTI; and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

Applications need to be submitted through the Macquarie University online recruitment system. Where circumstances such as disability or remote location prohibit your access to our online system or for any enquiries about this position, please contact the enquiries person listed in this advertisement for assistance.