Research Associate in Materiality of Artificial Intelligence

UNSW; Adelaide; On-site; AUD 118,000 - 127,000; Full time

Job summary

UNSW's School of Minerals and Energy Resources Engineering seeks a Research Associate to examine the mineral demand implications of scaling artificial intelligence hardware. You will analyze mineral requirements for AI technologies and the geological constraints on supply, using material flow analysis and industrial ecology to inform environmental and resource insights.

This role is based in Australia and reports to Professor Saleem Ali.

Qualifications

• PhD in a related discipline or equivalent research experience.
• Proven ability to conduct high-quality independent research with limited supervision.
• Strong record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team and build effective relationships.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to UNSW’s aims, policies and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on mineral demand implications of scaling AI hardware.
• Develop scenarios and analyze mineral requirements for AI technologies and supply constraints.
• Contribute to scholarly publications and research outcomes.
• Engage with stakeholders and research partners; participate in conferences and workshops.
• Assist with supervision of research students as required.

Skills

Academic research

Publications & presentations

Independent research

Interpersonal skills

Stakeholder communication

Team collaboration

Health & safety awareness

Education

PhD or equivalent

Job description

The Opportunity

The School of Minerals and Energy Resources Engineering has an opportunity for a Research Associate to investigate the mineral demand implications of scaling artificial intelligence hardware. Through scenario development, you will examine the mineral requirements of AI technologies and the geological constraints affecting mineral supply, while considering opportunities for resource efficiency and a circular economy. You will apply research methods such as material flow analysis and industrial ecology to contribute to a better understanding of the environmental and resource implications of the continued expansion of artificial intelligence.

This Job is based in Australia

This position will provide you with the opportunity to further develop your research expertise while contributing to high-quality research outcomes. You will work independently and collaboratively, contribute to scholarly publications and research activities, engage with relevant stakeholders and research partners, participate in conferences and workshops, and assist with the supervision of research students where required.

This role reports to Professor Saleem Ali and has no direct reports.

• Salary, Level A: AUD $118,467 to $126,711 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Employment type: Full time
• Appointment type: Fixed-term contract – 6-months
• Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

About UNSW

UNSW is a world-leading institution recognised for its scale, prestige, and impact. With strong industry engagement and partnerships across sectors, UNSW provides a unique environment where research expertise translates into real-world outcomes. The University is home to cutting‑edge research that drives innovation and addresses some of society’s most pressing challenges. For researchers, UNSW offers an outstanding platform to thrive — combining world‑class facilities, collaborative networks, and a culture of innovation that supports research excellence, industry engagement, and meaningful societal impact.

UNSW’s School of Minerals and Energy Resources Engineering is a global leader in mining, petroleum and sustainable energy resources engineering. Our multidisciplinary academics deliver internationally recognised research and work closely with industry to develop innovative solutions for the minerals, energy and low‑carbon sectors. The School is ranked second in the world and first in Australia for Mineral & Mining Engineering, and 10th in the world and second in Australia for Petroleum Engineering in the 2025 QS World University Rankings by Subject. For more information about the School, please visit UNSW School of Minerals and Energy Resources Engineering

Skills & Experience

• A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high‑quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. The position description is available via JOBS@UNSW.

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.