We aim to pioneer the quantum frontier and accelerate the path to commercially viable quantum computers.
As a PhD scholar, you’ll join a vibrant, multidisciplinary community working across the full quantum computing stack (Devices, Architectures, and Algorithms).
Join cutting-edge quantum computing research. Tackle real problems, work with top researchers and leading companies, and help shape the future of quantum technology. We are recruiting driven students ready to dive into complex quantum computing topics.
Explore currently available projects below and apply to contribute to high-impact research.
Our scholarship applications are delivered in partnership with Sydney Quantum Academy.
FIRST ROUND: 27 August until 8 October 2025
Design of fault-tolerant protocols with PsiQuantum
Prof Andrew Doherty (The University of Sydney),  Prof Stephen Bartlett (The University of Sydney), Dr Sam Roberts (PsiQuantum)
Project overview: Quantum error-correcting codes are static objects from which fault tolerant protocols can be derived. The implementation of a fault tolerant protocol depends on numerous factors, the most important being the physical architecture that will be used. Fusion-based quantum computing (FBQC) with a photonic physical architecture provides a large degree of flexibility in designing fault tolerant protocols. In this project we will study different aspects of fault tolerant protocols in FBQC, including making use of a new generation of quantum error-correcting codes.
This project would suit: A student with an interest in mathematical and analytical problems, and a background in physics, mathematics, or related areas. Some experience with numerical methods would also be beneficial.
Industry placement with PsiQuantum
For more information, contact the project supervisor: Prof Andrew Doherty
Integrating nuclear spins with quantum dots in silicon with Diraq
Scientia Professor Andrea Morello (UNSW), Ms Stefanie Tardo (Diraq)
Project overview: The project seeks to develop a quantum computer device where the nuclear spin of a donor atom in silicon is integrated with a gate-defined quantum dot. This type of device will represent the unit cell of a scalable quantum processor, which combines the exceptional coherence and gate fidelity of nuclear spins with the addressability and manufacturability of semiconductor quantum dots. The ultimate objective is to build a fault-tolerant, error-corrected silicon quantum computer with local logical encoding in the nuclear spin of donor atoms, and electrons in quantum dots providing medium-range interactions between logical qubits. The project will be conducted in partnership with Diraq Pty. Ltd., which is developing scalable quantum dot devices in silicon.
This project would suit: This project is ideal for candidates with a strong background and interest in quantum engineering and quantum physics.
Industry placement with Diraq
For more information, contact the project supervisor: Scientia Professor Andrea Morello
Complexity and universality in quantum scattering and sampling with PsiQuantum
Prof Peter Turner (Macquarie University), Prof Terry Rudolph (PsiQuantum)
Project overview: Interference is a defining feature of quantum mechanics and an important resource in quantum information technologies. Boson sampling, for example, hinges on the fact that interferometers natively sample probability distributions given by the symmetric representation of the unitary group, which in turn is given by computationally ‘hard’ matrix permanents. This opens a wide array of interesting mathematical connections between representation theory, combinatorics, and universality in quantum scattering problems. In this PhD project we will explore these connections and their implications for quantum information and computation. A key question is whether these generalisations might be practically useful beyond demonstrating computational ‘supremacy’.
This project would suit: A mathematically sophisticated student who is interested in the quickly growing field of quantum technologies.
Industry placement with PsiQuantum
For more information, contact the project supervisor: Prof Peter Turner
Quantum control for trapped-ion quantum computers with Q-CTRL
Dr Ting Rei Tan (Sydney University), Dr Michael Hush (Q-CTRL)
Project overview: This project aims to innovate quantum control strategies to accelerate the large-scale utility of quantum computers. The focus is on enabling a new suite of quantum control that will significantly reduce the quantum hardware resources and allow low-error processing of quantum information. This will be achieved by developing advanced dynamical modulation techniques that incorporate light-atom Hamiltonian engineering, leveraging machine learning techniques and insights from atomic and optical physics.
This project would suit: The project would suit candidates with Honours/Master degree in Physics or related subject.Â
Industry placement with Q-CTRL
For more information, contact the project supervisor: Dr Ting Rei Tan
Quantum machine learning, optimisation and simulation for Defence applications with Defence Science and Technology Group
A/Prof Troy Lee (University of Technology Sydney), Dr Ben Travaglione (Defence Science and Technology Group)
Project overview: We are seeking a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate to join an exciting research project at the cutting edge of quantum computing. This project will explore the application of quantum machine learning, quantum optimisation, and quantum simulation to high-impact problems applicable to the defence sector. A central goal of this research is to identify and develop quantum algorithms capable of delivering super-quadratic speedups over the best known classical approaches, whether for finding exact solutions or high-quality approximations. You will investigate novel algorithmic frameworks, conduct rigorous theoretical analysis, and assess the real-world feasibility of these methods for defence-relevant use cases.
This project would suit: Students with a strong background in mathematics and/or theoretical computer science.
Placement with Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG)
For more information, contact the project supervisor: A/Prof Troy Lee
Quantum-walk-based algorithms for potential practical applications with Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre
Prof Jingbo Wang (University of Western Australia), Mr Ugo Varetto (Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre)
Project Overview: This project focuses on developing and optimizing algorithms based on quantum walks, the quantum mechanical equivalent of classical random walks, to harness their unique properties like faster spreading, interference, and entanglement for practical computational advantages. By leveraging these features, the research aims to develop computationally superior methods for a variety of practical applications. This includes creating more efficient algorithms for complex graph analysis tasks like network optimization and community detection, enhancing search problems across large datasets, and enabling more accurate and efficient simulations of complex physical systems. Ultimately, this project seeks to translate the theoretical power of quantum walks into tangible, deployable solutions for real-world computational challenges on emerging quantum computing platforms.
This project would suit: a student with a strong theoretical background in mathematics and practical knowledge of quantum computing. Prior experience with quantum algorithms is highly beneficial.
Placement with Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre
For more information, contact the project supervisor: Prof Jingbo Wang
Quantum Optimisation and Quantum Signal Processing with Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre
Prof Jingbo Wang (University of Western Australia), Mr Ugo Varetto (Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre)
Project overview: This project explores the development and application of quantum algorithms to tackle complex optimisation problems and enhance signal processing tasks. By leveraging the unique properties of quantum systems, such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum interference, the project aims to achieve computational advantages over classical approaches. In quantum optimisation, we investigate quantum-enhanced methods for solving combinatorial and continuous optimisation problems relevant to logistics, finance, and engineering. In quantum signal processing, we design and analyse algorithms that enable efficient transformation, filtering, and analysis of signals using quantum circuits, with potential applications in enhanced medical imaging, advanced communication, and geophysical exploration.
This project would suit: a student with a strong theoretical background in mathematics and practical knowledge of quantum computing. Prior experience with quantum algorithms is highly beneficial.
Placement with Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre
For more information, contact the project supervisor: Prof Jingbo Wang