Summer research program 2021–22
EQUS' summer research program is a funded opportunity for undergraduate students to get a taste of scientific research and learn new skills. Successful applicants will undertake a defined research project at one of our nodes and have the opportunity to participate in professional development activities.
The main objectives of this program are to:
- Provide participants with direct scientific experience
- Support the development of skills and knowledge necessary for a career in quantum science and technology
- Facilitate engagement with the field through professional development opportunities
- Foster diversity in STEM by helping to train and engage students with an interest in quantum early in the pipeline
This 2021–22 program is open only to students from underrepresented groups within STEM or who have experienced uncommon hardship. This is in line with our goal of broadening participation of such groups by creating pathways that ensure a more diverse supply of interested and prepared future HDR candidates, and promoting the sustainability of pathways through inclusive recruitment practices and collaborative, cross-institutional networking.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the program, applicants should:
- Have an interest in academic research and/or quantum physics
- Be willing to participate in professional development activities
- Demonstrate capacity for self-directed work towards open-ended goals
- Be undertaking (enrolled in) a relevant undergraduate degree
- Have completed at least two full semesters of study by the time the project commences and have at least one semester of study remaining
- Identify as being part of a group that is underrepresented in STEM or have experienced uncommon hardship; this may include, but is not limited to
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, people of colour, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, women and people from gender minorities
- People living with a disability, who care for a person with a disability or who have other caring responsibilities
- First-generation university students (ie, people whose parents or guardians did not attend university)
- People returning to study later in life as a career change or after an extended break
- People from a refugee background or low socio-economic background, or who have experienced domestic violence
Applications will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Adademic performance
- Suitability for the chosen project (see project descriptions under 'Project details')
- Capacity to undertake a research project
- Communication skills (as demonstrated by your cover letter)
- Motivation to participate in the program
Project details
Projects are available at all our nodes and virtually, and on a range of topics. Applicants may either choose from the list of advertised projects or propose a new one. If you would like to propose a new project, please reach out to the relevant CI(s) to discuss before applying.
A project typically runs for 6 weeks, between December 2021 and March 2022. Project dates and length are flexible; however, all participants are expected to attend an induction session at the start of the program and a project presentation session at the end of the program (dates TBC).
Successful applicants will receive a stipend of $500 per week for the duration of their project, which must be paid into an Australian bank account.
How to apply
To apply, please complete and submit the application form. As part of the application, you will need to provide your CV, a cover letter, and a copy of your current studies report or academic transcript. The same form is used for all projects; you will be able to indicate your project preference as part of the application.
Note that, in addition to data necessary to assess the applications, we are collecting demographic information to allow us to assess the diversity of the applicant pool, in line with our goal of increasing participation rates for members of underrepresented groups in STEM. Providing this information is optional and will be treated as confidential. Applicants are required only to confirm their eligibility as a member of an underrepresented group or someone who has experienced uncommon hardship, not to provide proof. We encourage all those eligible to apply, regardless of background.
Applications close at midnight (AEST) on 14 November 2021. If you have any questions, please contact mentoring@equs.org.
About EQUS
EQUS' mission is to engineer the quantum future by building quantum machines that harness the quantum world for practical applications. We are solving the most challenging research problems at the interface of basic quantum physics and engineering, working with partners in industry to translate these discoveries into practical applications and devices, and training a new generation of scientists in cutting-edge research, innovation and entrepreneurialism.
We are committed to improving equity, diversity and inclusion within our Centre, at our partner institutions and in the wider quantum physics community. Our goal is to provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment which allows all our members to achieve success, and to feel respected and supported.
Meet some of our researchers and find out what it's like to work at EQUS:
Major funding support
The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past and present.