Designing distributed quantum-enhanced algorithms

Quantum computing is an emerging technology that will revolutionise computing, providing solutions that the largest supercomputers cannot find.

While advancing rapidly, current quantum hardware is immature. As it matures, quantum computing resources will remain scarce for decades. The earliest applications will be demonstrated using approaches that make effective use of limited quantum computational resources.

While quantum algorithm specifications have long incorporated parallel operations, it is only relatively recently that the quantum computing community has explored distributed quantum algorithms. The project will focus on distributed algorithms for future error-corrected fault tolerant quantum computers that will resemble supercomputers in that they will have multiple processors, both quantum and classical.

In this project, you will develop distributed quantum-enhanced algorithms tailored to specific applications, building on prior work on distributed algorithms, both purely quantum, and hybrid quantum-classical. 

Professor Rieffel’s group offers an outstanding environment for research, building on established research strengths at UQ in quantum science spanning fundamental physics, materials, sensing, and emerging quantum computing technologies and with domain experts in various application areas.

The group provides a stimulating environment in which students would expand their knowledge and capabilities. Particularly with its strong ties to the Queensland Quantum Decarbonization Alliance (QDA) of which Professor Rieffel is the director, the group is a highly interdisciplinary environment with close ties to industry. 

Professor Rieffel has extensive experience mentoring junior researchers in a variety of fields, helping them succeed in this fascinating but technically challenging area.

You will have access to powerful desktop systems as well the University’s eResearch technologies including compute clusters, high-performance computing (HPC) facilities, research data storage, and visualisation tools, and will have the opportunity to use and build on open-source quantum circuit simulation software.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of algorithms, including distributed algorithms, quantum computing, and an application domain would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field of quantum computing, particularly quantum algorithms and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of tools for simulating quantum circuits, tools for estimating quantum resources, and supercomputers & HPC is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 11 June, 2026 11 June, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Professor Eleanor Rieffel (e.rieffel@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: QUANTUM-GUPTA
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/designing-distributed-quantum-enhanced-algorithms

Submit an EOI