ARC Grant-Funded Researcher B

(Level B) $114,917 - $135,932 per annum plus an employer contribution of up to 17% superannuation may apply.

The University of Adelaide is seeking applications for an ARC Grant-Funded Researcher to work on an ARC Discovery Project Grant-funded project initially for 2 years fixed term, appointment to commence as soon as possible.

The specific topic area of this post is relating to optical trapping in vacuum. The project will address challenges at the classical-quantum interface and has translation potential in the area of precision measurement.

The successful applicant will play a leading role in developing and implementing various forms of trapping within a vibrant team under ARC Laureate Fellowship recipient Professor Kishan Dholakia.

The work is based within the Centre of Light for Life. The centre aims to build upon the area of photonics and its applications in other multidisciplinary fields. The specific topic area of the post is the development of optical trapping and rotation of particles in vacuum for studies of fundamental physics. This will explore the classical-quantum boundary developing the field known as levitated optomechanics.

The successful applicant will be required to undertake both experimental work and numerical studies. They will be expected to liaise with key institutes such as the Institute of Photonics and Advanced Sensing and the School of Physics.

To be successful you will need:

• A PhD in photonics and/or optical trapping development
• Experience in one of more of the following: optical trapping in liquid, air and vacuum; force measurements in optical traps; beam shaping; microparticle synthesis; quantum imaging; multiphoton imaging; imaging through scattering media; the development and application of numerical methods of image and signal analysis
• The ability to work well with people both in academia and Industry
• The ability to plan and manage own research activity related to advanced optical trapping and conduct relevant individual and collaborative research projects
• Good oral communication, paper writing and literature research

The path to Adelaide University

We are on an exciting path to Adelaide University as we prepare to open our doors in January 2026. Adelaide University will combine the strengths of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, and we are dedicated to creating an accessible and future-focused educational powerhouse that fosters economic and social wellbeing through ground-breaking research and innovative teaching. You can learn more about Adelaide University HERE and more information will be provided throughout the recruitment process.

Enjoy an outstanding career environment

We offer a uniquely rewarding workplace. The size, breadth and quality of our education and research programs - including significant industry, government and community collaboration - offers you vast scope and opportunity for a long, fulfilling career.

It also enables us to attract high-calibre people in all facets of our operations, ensuring you will be surrounded by talented colleagues, many world-leading. Our work's cutting-edge nature - not just in your own area, but across virtually the full spectrum of human endeavour - provides a constant source of inspiration.

Our culture is one that welcomes all and embraces diversity consistent with our Staff Values and Behaviour Framework and our Values of integrity, respect, collegiality, excellence and discovery. We firmly believe that our people are our most valuable asset, so we work to grow and diversify the skills, knowledge and capability of all our staff.

We embrace flexibility as a key principle to allow our people to manage the changing demands of work, personal and family life.

In addition, we offer a wide range of attractive staff benefits. These include: salary packaging; flexible work arrangements; high-quality professional development programs and activities; and an on-campus health clinic, gym and other fitness facilities.

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Your faculty's broader role

The Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology is a multidisciplinary hub of cutting-edge teaching and research. Many of its academic staff are world leaders in their fields and graduates are highly regarded by employers. The Faculty actively partners with innovative industries to solve problems of global significance.

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If you have the talent, we'll give you the opportunity. Together, let's make history.

Click on the 'Apply Now' button to be taken through to the online application form. Please ensure you submit a cover letter, resume, and upload a document that includes your responses to all of the selection criteria for the position as contained in the position description or selection criteria document.

Applications close 11:55pm, 3 September 2025.

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.

For further information

For a confidential discussion regarding this position, contact:

Professor Kishan Dholakia

ARC Laureate, School of Biological Sciences

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You'll find a full position description and selection criteria below: (If no links appear, try viewing on another device)

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Female applicants, people with a disability and/or and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who meet the requirements of this position are strongly encouraged to apply. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application.