Research Associate – School of Civil & Environmental Engineering (UNSW Kensington)

UNSW; Canberra; On-site; AUD 95,000 - 127,000; Full time

Job summary

UNSW is seeking a Research Associate in the Faculty of Engineering to work on an innovative scaled boundary framework for dynamic nonlinear analysis of large-scale structures. The role reports to Professor Chongmin Song and has no direct reports. It is a fixed-term, full-time appointment located at Kensington, Sydney.

The position is a 12-month contract with 35-hour weeks, offering a salary between AUD 95,036 and AUD 126,711 plus 17% superannuation.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent research experience in a relevant field.
• Proven ability to conduct high-quality academic research with limited supervision.
• Strong publication/conference record relevant to the opportunity.
• Experience developing numerical methods evidenced by journal publications.
• Strong programming skills demonstrated in PhD research and publications.

Skills

Research experience

Publications

Programming

Collaboration

Communication

Education

PhD in related discipline

Tools

Python

Matlab

Job description

The Opportunity

The project aims to develop an innovative scaled boundary framework leveraging the power of modern computer facilities needed for dynamic nonlinear analysis of large-scale structures. Modern digital technologies for geometric modelling will be seamlessly integrated with computational mechanics. The outcome of this project is an innovative technology and a computer simulation tool that will be robust, fully automated and highly efficient. The role of Research Associate reports to Professor Chongmin Song and has no direct reports.

• Salary, Level A - $95,036 - $126,711 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full Time: 35 hours
• Fixed-term contract for 12 months
• Location: Kensington - Sydney, Australia

About UNSW

UNSW isn't like other places you've worked. Yes, we're a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn't only what we do, it's how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you're in the right place. The Faculty of Engineering at UNSW continues to be a national and international leader in engineering research and education, cementing its status as the University's premier research faculty. As the largest Engineering Faculty in Australia, it graduates the highest number of engineers and maintains the largest research expenditure in the country. Through excellence in both fundamental and applied research, the Faculty strives to sustain and further its global impact, aiming to be ranked among the top engineering faculties worldwide. For more information, visit the Faculty website: https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/about-us

Skills & Experience

• A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
• 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.
• Previous experience on developing numerical methods as evidenced by journal publications.
• Strong ability and skills in computer programming as demonstrated by PhD research and refereed journal publications.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• 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.

Pre-Employment Checks

As part of our recruitment process candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening, which may include reference checks, qualification verification, right-to-work verification, and criminal history screening where relevant to the role.

Compliance with the necessary combination of these checks is a condition of employment at UNSW.

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

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Monday 9th November 2026

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.