• Based in the College of Science, Adelaide City Campus East
• 2 x Part time (0.5FTE) or full time (1.0FTE) fixed term contracts available for 2 years
• Salary range: (Level A) $81,293 - $109,307 - (Level B) $114,917 - $135,932 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive. 

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters 

This role will directly impact the development of next-generation frequency comb technologies, applied to optical atomic clocks and other precision metrology applications. Part of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS), the position will underpin multidisciplinary and nation-wide collaborations.

The Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs (COMBS) for Breakthrough Science aims to explore the society wide transformations that will flow from optical frequency combs - thousands of highly pure light signals precisely spaced across the entire optical spectrum - by leveraging and building upon the latest breakthroughs in physics, materials science and nanofabrication. It expects to generate a wide new base of knowledge in fields as diverse as astronomy, spectroscopy, chemical sensors, and precision measurement. Expected outcomes include the capability to realise complete comb systems on a chip the size of a fingernail, tailored to specific applications, with significant benefits spanning from imaging live cells to autonomous vehicles, satellite communications, and the search for exoplanets. As a member of COMBS, you will have the opportunity to work with other COMBS researchers spanning all career stages at our various member institutions. You will also have the opportunity to engage with industry across Australia and around the globe. There will be many opportunities for learning through workshops, technology translation and entrepreneurship bootcamps, and access to top photonics scientists.

The team 

Reporting to the Chief Investigator and Research Group Senior Manager of Adelaide University’s Precision Measurement Group (PMG), the role will lead the development of experimental capabilities in the research and construction of next-generation frequency combs, contributing to the advancement of the capabilities of the broader PMG and COMBS network. PMG is composed of world-leading physicist and engineers, developing next-generation precision metrology techniques and technologies.

The College of Science expands knowledge and turns it into real-world solutions for today’s biggest challenges. From improving health and advancing new technologies to developing sustainable solutions, our teaching and research make a meaningful difference in society.

Visit the AU website to learn more about the College of Science | Adelaide University.

Our people  

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role suits someone who thrives in a dynamic environment with a variety of tasks to complete and enjoys working in cross-functional teams to maximize our collective achievements. You’ll engage with colleagues, students, and collaborators, receiving and delivering research contributions across teams.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience 

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:

Level A

• A PhD (or near completion) or equivalent degree in experimental physics, electrical and electronic engineering or a related discipline.
• In-depth knowledge related to optical frequency combs, including design for spectroscopic applications, manufacturing, implementation and characterisation.
• Advanced analytical and computational skills, including data collection and analysis, and a demonstrated ability to perform numerical and symbolic calculations.
• Demonstrated success working in a team environment, with the ability to lead independent research activities.
• Experience working as part of a research project or performing novel research.
• Excellent verbal, written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ideally, hands on experience in an optics / atomic physics lab, comfortable setting up beam paths and working with class 3B lasers.

Level B

• At least 2 years of postdoctoral research experience in research and development related to optical frequency combs (e.g. microcombs, free-space combs, fibre-based combs) and their applications.
• Experience with locking techniques to stabilise optical frequency combs.
• Hands-on experience with building frequency combs, or other integrated laser platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research in addition to working effectively as a member of a cross-disciplinary team.
• Experience in building, managing and delivering on cross-group, cross-institutional and interdisciplinary research projects.
• Experience in communicating effectively with professional and industry bodies, government, and members of the community.
• Experience in leading research projects that have required organisational and time management skills, including experience to follow an agreed project plan and meet realistic milestones
• Commitment to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, and ability to contribute to the diversity of the school community.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity 

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. 

Launch your future with Adelaide University now 

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload: 

• your current CV 
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role 

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address. 

Submit your application by 11:30pm, Wednesday 15 July 2026.

Please note that the role description is not attached to this advertisement as it is currently being finalised.

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

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 492737): 

Jessica Maslen  
Team Lead – Talent Acquisition
People and Culture
+61 8 8302 1700| careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au 

Appointment is subject to a satisfactory National Police Check (NPC) being obtained and maintained.  

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