PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Quantum Compiler for Efficient Circuit Transpilation

Monash • Clayton, NC

8d • $41,100 • Onsite

About The Position

This PhD project will develop efficient quantum compiler methods to bridge the gap between quantum algorithms and their execution on quantum processors. The project will develop innovative quantum software components and reinforcement machine learning models to enable efficient transpilation of quantum circuits on a wide range of quantum processor modalities and topologies. The key aim of the project is to minimise resource requirements (number of qubits, gates, etc) for quantum circuit execution. The Scalable Quantum Systems Lab, directed by Professor Muhammad Usman, is home to a range of innovative tools and projects – including developing applications of quantum computing Brisbane 2032 Olympics Games, National Quantum Computing Testbed Facility, and Quantum Artificial Intelligence for Defence. The successful PhD candidate will be part of a world-class research program interacting with post-doctoral researchers and PhD students at the Faculty of Information technology.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree of at least four years in a relevant discipline, which includes a research thesis or project, with a minimum overall average grade of an honours degree equivalent to the First Class Honours; or A master's degree in a relevant discipline which includes a research thesis or project equivalent to at least 25 percent of one year of full-time study, with a minimum overall average grade of honours equivalent to the First Class Honours; or A qualification, or combination of qualifications and relevant professional experience, deemed equivalent by the GRC (or delegate).
• Meet university English language requirements.
• Not have previously completed a PhD.
• Be able to commence the Program in the year of the offer.
• A strong background in machine learning, deep learning, and software programming.
• Proficiency in Python and machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch (required).
• Strong analytical skills.
• Curiosity for interdisciplinary research.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with both academic and industry teams.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of quantum computing or quantum algorithms (advantageous but not essential).

Responsibilities

• Develop efficient quantum compiler methods.
• Develop innovative quantum software components.
• Develop reinforcement machine learning models for efficient transpilation of quantum circuits.
• Minimize resource requirements (number of qubits, gates, etc) for quantum circuit execution.

Benefits

• A scholarship package totalling approximately $41,100 AUD per annum (2026 rate with annual indexation)
• FIT Candidature Funding of $4,000 AUD for the duration of the candidature
• Up to $1,265 AUD from Monash Graduate Research Office as a one-off travel grant

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level