PhD Scholarship: Advancing Quantum Experiments to Test Reality Beyond Bells Theorem Experimental P

Griffith University’s Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Research Institute (QUATRI) undertakes world-leading quantum science and technology research. The Centre comprises more than 40 researchers with strong collaborations between world-leading experimental and theoretical groups. Our cutting-edge research encompasses many areas, including quantum information processing, quantum foundations, and ultrafast quantum processes.

The PhD will be undertaken at Griffith University Brisbane South (Nathan) in the Quantum Optics and Information Laboratory (QOIL). As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to work across other locations. In QOIL, we use photons to investigate the fundamental rules of quantum physics and how to exploit them in quantum technologies, thereby addressing important research questions in quantum communication, quantum computing, remote processing, quantum information security, and precision measurement. The project's experiments will be done in collaboration with the theory groups led by Professor Howard Wiseman and Professor Eric Cavalcanti, pioneers in quantum theory and nonlocality.

Griffith University sites are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

We are currently looking for a PhD candidate to complete their research training at the Quantum Optics and Information Laboratory at Griffith University. The primary focus of this role is to develop the ability to perform high-level quantum optical experiments and master quantum foundations and information concepts. Success in this role requires collaboration skills to work in an international and multicultural environment.

This PhD project aims to develop and perform quantum experiments that will impose strong constraints on the nature of reality, even stronger than the constraints imposed by the Bell experiments recognised by the 2022 physics Nobel Prize. Expected outcomes include probing the nature of observation itself, for increasingly sophisticated systems acting as observers, and laying the theoretical groundwork for future tests that can rule out whole classes of theories about the world and our experience of it. Some of the benefits that will likely accrue are: pushing the development of photonic technology in novel directions, with the possibility of shedding light on the quantum measurement problem.

The selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. To be successful in this role, you should be able to engage with complex research problems in a systematic, critical, and logical manner. You will have evidence of perseverance, attention to detail, and a passion for scientific research. A strong desire to undertake research in quantum information and foundations, from both experimental and theoretical perspectives, is required.

• 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 in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Procedure.  For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.

Please note:

• Knowledge or experimental experience in quantum optics (particularly continuous variable optical systems) or quantum information will be an advantage.

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 minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE OR
3. A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19

About the scholarship

The 2025 Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship has an annual stipend of $34,752 (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. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.

What Griffith offers

As 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 process

Please do not select the “APPLY” button.  All expressions of interest must be submitted to Dr. Nora Tischler ([email protected]), and Dr. Sergei Slussarenko ([email protected]), containing:

• Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section, including a  copy of your academic transcript
• A curriculum vitae (CV) using the Griffith CV template.
• Names of two referees

Closing date for expressions of interest is: Friday 19 September 2025 5pm AEST

The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line

For project related enquiries please contact:

Dr. Nora Tischler

Email: [email protected]

Dr. Sergei Slussarenko

Email: [email protected]

For administration enquiries please contact:

Griffith Graduate Research School

Email: [email protected]