Project Title: Continuous Variable Quantum Communication Capabilities for Low-Earth Orbit Satellites.

Quantum communication via low-orbit satellites offers up a paradigm shift in telecommunications. Providing for unparalleled communication security, this emerging technology will also underpin the development of the global quantum internet. This research area was given a large boost recently with the launch of the world's first quantum communications enabled satellite. This new satellite creates entangled photon pairs, beaming them down to Earth for subsequent processing and use in a range of communication scenarios. In this project you will investigate the use of Free-Space Optical (FSO) links to and from Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to enable quantum communications over very large distances. Distinct from the Discrete Variable (DV) single-photon technology used by the satellite currently in orbit, you will be focused on Continuous Variable (CV) multi-photon laser technology. This latter technology has the potential for better quantum communication performance. Your main goal will be to fully investigate the performance gains that can be achieved in practice using current CV detector technology in the context of LEO satellites.

The project combines two key areas: theoretical studies on CV quantum-information transfer through the free space channel, and experimental and/or modelling studies of laser propagation through atmospheric turbulence. In this project you will be expected to be across both these domains. You will also be expected to help supervise PhD students working on this same project.

This Postdoctoral position is sponsored by the Department of Defence’s DST (Defence Science Technology Group) based in Adelaide (see www.dst.defence.gov.au). Although the successful candidate will be based at UNSW Sydney he/she should be prepared to spend several weeks per year visiting and collaborating with DST researchers. The candidate is expected to hold a PhD in quantum communications - or a closely related area. Knowledge of laser propagation through atmospheric turbulence is also considered to be advantageous. The PhD must be awarded prior to the commencement of this postdoctoral position. Travel funds will also be made available to the successful candidate for travel within Australia and to international conferences. The position is for one year duration.

About UNSW & The School:-
UNSW as a whole is one of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities. It has a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion. The School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications at UNSW has a vibrant research culture reflected in the achievements of its academic staff, and is currently rated as a level 5 ERA School (“Well above world standard”) in each of the 2010, 2012 and 2015 Excellence in Research Australia evaluations. The School enjoys a world-leading reputation for research excellence.

About the role:-
• $75,069-$100,090pa + 9.5% Superannuation
• Fixed Term (1 year)
• Full time
The role of Research Associate reports to Associate Professor Robert Malaney and has nil direct reports.

About the successful applicant:-
Specific responsibilities for this role include:
• Conduct research in the area of Quantum Communications, independently and as part of a team;
• Contribute to the writing of scientific papers and reports for international journals and progress reporting to other researchers and industry partners;
• Assist with the coordination of research activities and actively contribute to research outputs to meet project milestones;
• Contribute to the preparation of research proposal submissions to funding bodies and actively seek collaboration with industry partners, as appropriate;
• Participate in and/or present at conferences and/or workshops relevant to the project, as required;
• Assist with the supervision of research students in the research area, where required;
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others.
Selection Criteria:
• PhD (or soon to be awarded) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related area;
• Ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision;
• Track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity;
• Ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships;
• Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students;
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

You should systematically address the selection criteria listed within the position description in your application.

Please apply online - applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.
Apply Online Here: http://external-careers.jobs.unsw.edu.au/cw/en/job/496294/research-assoc...

For further information - Contact:
Robert Malaney
E: r.malaney@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11:30 pm (AEST), Sunday April 30th, 2019