Nalini Joshi

This postdoctoral position sits within the ARC Centre of Excellence in Mathematics for Quantum Era Security & Trust (MathQuEST) at the University of Melbourne, based in the School of Mathematics and Statistics in Melbourne. The project focuses on quantum optimisation, with an emphasis on building improved approaches to quantum algorithms for challenging combinatorial optimisation problems. The successful researcher will design, analyse and implement novel quantum algorithms, contributing to a programme that blends modelling and algorithmic advances. The work is embedded in a large, internationally connected centre that unites nine Australian universities and a wider partner network across industry, government, universities and professional bodies. The centre’s research environment is explicitly interdisciplinary, collaborative and oriented toward developing a mathematically trained, technologically agile workforce. The position is undertaken under the guidance of Dr Lindon Roberts and Professor Kate Smith-Miles, and within a centre led by Professor Nalini Joshi. The role includes collaboration with MathQuEST researchers and partners, interaction with Melbourne’s quantum ecosystem, and opportunities to build an independent research profile. The advertised responsibilities also include mentoring postgraduate and junior research staff, engaging in seminars and conferences, and contributing to outreach and strategic collaborations. MathQuEST describes itself as a centre founded on mathematics for the quantum era, aiming to develop algorithms that protect future systems, empower discovery and increase trust in a quantum-computing world. The research setting highlights inclusion, diversity, flexibility and strong support for professional development, with access to mentoring and a broad academic network.