PhD Scholarship: Quantum sensing with single photons

Company DescriptionGriffith University’s Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Research Institute (QUATRI) undertakes world-leading research in quantum science and technology. The Centre comprises more than 25 researchers focused on quantum technology, including theorists and experimentalists with strong collaborative links. Our cutting-edge research spans many areas, including quantum optics, quantum information processing, quantum foundations, ultrafast quantum processes, and quantum biophysics. The Centre hosts a node of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computer Performance and Integration and is also home to the Australian Attosecond Science Facility, the only laboratory in Australia where atoms, molecules, and materials can be probed on sub-femtosecond timescales.
This opportunity will be primarily based at Brisbane South (Nathan). As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to work across other locations. Griffith University’s sites are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.
Job DescriptionWe are currently seeking a PhD candidate to work in experimental quantum optics. The primary focus of this role is to contribute to an externally funded project on photonic quantum state generation and quantum sensing. The project involves coding, simulations, and experimental work in a quantum optics laboratory. Success in this role will require close collaboration with an immediate team consisting of Dr Sergei Slussareno, Dr Farzad Ghafari and Dr Nora Tischler, with further collaborations also likely across a broader network of physicists in Australia and internationally.
QualificationsThe selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of academic merit and research background. To be successful in this role, you should be able to understand and work in an optics laboratory, demonstrate familiarity with or interest in programming techniques (e.g. MATLAB, Python, or similar), apply independent problem-solving skills, and communicate scientific results clearly. You should also demonstrate a strong passion for quantum science and a clear desire to undertake research in quantum optics.

• Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
• Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.
• Prior experience in any of the following areas is desired, but not necessary: experimental techniques in single-photon sources and detection, SPDC source simulation, and interferometric optics.

International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:

1. A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0 OR
2. A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19 OR
3. A score of no less than 3+ in each skill of the ISLPR (conducted by ISLPR Language Services only) OR
4. A minimum overall score of 176 (no score less than 169) on C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency OR
5. An overall score of 58 in the Pearson Test of English (Academic) with no score less than 50 (applies to tests taken prior to 7 August 2025) OR
6. An overall score of 55 in the Pearson Test of English (Academic) with no score less than 47 (applies to tests taken on or after 7 August 2025) OR
7. An overall score of 70 in the LanguageCert Academic OR
8. An overall score of 59 in the Michigan English Test (MET).

Additional Information
About the scholarshipThe 2026 Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship has an annual stipend of $35,656 (indexed) for a period of up to three years of full-time study. Please see the GUPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years full time study. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
What Griffith offersAs a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).
EOI ProcessPlease do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to Dr Farzad Ghafari f.ghafari@griffith.edu.au containing:

• Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
• Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section
• A curriculum vitae (CV)
• Names of two referees

Closing date for expressions of interest is: Sunday 31 May 2026 11.59pm AEST
The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line.
For project related enquiries please contact:Dr Farzad GhafariPhone: (07) 3735 7894Email: f.ghafari@griffith.edu.au
For administration enquiries please contact:Griffith Graduate Research SchoolPhone: (07) 3735 3817Email: hdr-scholarship@griffith.edu.au