Fault-tolerant quantum algorithms for the energy transition

Strongly correlated quantum systems — whose behaviour cannot be captured by any single-particle description — are among the hardest problems in quantum many-body physics. 

Their theoretical richness renders them classically intractable, making them natural targets for fault-tolerant quantum computers. 

Understanding the relationship between physical and quantum computational complexities is one of the most fundamental open questions at the intersection of quantum physics and quantum information. 

In this project, you will investigate that relationship in molecular systems relevant to decarbonisation. Working from the physics of electronic correlation, spin, and environmental coupling, you will develop tools and intuition to characterise these systems as quantum simulation problems — mapping their symmetries and entanglement structure onto quantum computational resources.

The driving questions concern identifying what makes a quantum system hard to simulate, and what a fault-tolerant device would need to address it.

This project is hosted by the School of Mathematics and Physics at UQ, within the ARC Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology (QUBIC) and the Queensland Quantum Decarbonisation Alliance (QDA). 

You will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment alongside researchers in quantum information, theoretical physics, and molecular science, with strong industry partnerships and ties to national quantum computing infrastructure. You will also have a chance to work closely with PsiQuantum as an industry partner.

You will have access to UQ's high-performance computing facilities and to open-source quantum circuit simulation and resource estimation software. 

This project is part of a coordinated research programme: you will work closely with a PhD candidate in the School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences whose work defines the molecular simulation targets that this project analyses and benchmarks, creating a genuine and productive interface between quantum algorithm design and quantum chemistry.

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 quantum mechanics and information theory and many-body physics would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of physics, mathematics, and/or quantum information science and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of quantum simulation, Hamiltonian mechanics, computational methods in physics, or quantum algorithms is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 26 September, 2026 26 September, 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 Kayla Warner (qda@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: ENERGY-CAMPOS
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/fault-tolerant-quantum-algorithms-energy-transition

Submit an EOI