PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Scalable Artificial Intelligence Decoding for Quantum Error Correction

Monash • Clayton, NC

8d • Onsite

About The Position

Quantum computers suffer from noise or errors which significantly reduce their fidelity to perform large-scale useful computations. To overcome errors, quantum error correction protocols are implemented which detect and correct errors using classical processing known as Decoding. However, decoding must be completed at fast speed and large-scale to ensure errors are fixed before they accumulate. In this project, the student will develop scalable artificial intelligence based methods such as deep neural networks or transformers to perform decoding in microsecond time scales while processing error information from millions of qubits. The project will lead to a timely and critical development for rapidly advancing quantum computing industry and play an important role in enabling real-world applications of quantum computers. 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)

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of quantum computing or quantum algorithms (advantageous but not essential)
• Strong analytical skills, curiosity for interdisciplinary research, and the ability to collaborate effectively with both academic and industry teams

Responsibilities

• Develop scalable artificial intelligence based methods such as deep neural networks or transformers to perform decoding in microsecond time scales while processing error information from millions of qubits.

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