Research Fellow - Machine Learning for LEO Satellite Communications

Macquarie University; Sydney; On-site; AUD 113,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work arrangements

17% Superannuation

Subsidised onsite parking

Extensive training and development

Onsite childcare facilities

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Macquarie University’s School of Engineering invites applications for a Research Fellow to advance autonomous, intelligent satellite networks. The role focuses on learning-based decision making, multi-agent coordination, and developing a simulation platform, with international collaboration and publication opportunities.

The successful candidate will contribute to a major project funded by the Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund, publish in top journals, and shape research directions

Qualifications

• PhD in EE/CS/related field is essential
• Strong publication record in international journals/conferences
• Experience applying machine learning to research problems
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or MATLAB
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills
• Ability to plan and manage research independently and meet deadlines
• Commitment to collaborative research and teamwork

Responsibilities

• Develop next-generation intelligent, self-organising satellite networks
• Investigate learning-based decision making for LEO satellites
• Design algorithms and mathematical models for autonomous satellite coordination
• Develop an open-source simulation and benchmarking platform
• Collaborate with international researchers and supervise postgraduate students
• Contribute to technical reporting and joint research activities

Skills

Python programming

MATLAB

Machine learning

Algorithms

Communication

Education

PhD in electrical/electronic engineering, computer science, applied mathematics

Tools

Git

Job description

Salary & Appointment Type

Salary Package: $112,550 - $120,621 (Level A6-A8) per annum, plus 17% employer’s superannuation and annual leave loading. Appointment will be commensurate with qualifications, experience and research track record. Appointment Type: Full-time (35 hours per week), fixed-term appointment for 2 years, with a possibility of further renewal subject to funding. Location: Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde.

The Role

Macquarie University’s School of Engineering is seeking a Research Fellow to help develop the next generation of intelligent, self‑organising satellite networks. The position contributes to “Brain-in-Space: A Machine Learning Framework for Self‑Organizing Low‑Earth Orbit Satellite Networks”, funded by the Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund. You will investigate how low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites can operate as intelligent agents, learning to make decisions and coordinate their actions as orbital and traffic conditions change. Your research will combine machine learning, mathematical modelling and algorithm design to enable autonomous operation of large satellite constellations. You will also develop an open‑source simulation and benchmarking platform to evaluate these methods under realistic network conditions. You will work closely with Dr Hazer Inaltekin at Macquarie University and international collaborators including Associate Professor Wonjae Shin at Korea University, Professor Jungwoo Lee at Seoul National University, and Professor Vincent Poor at Princeton University. Within the project’s objectives, you will have considerable scope to shape the research direction, develop your own ideas and lead research contributions. The role offers opportunities to publish in leading journals and conferences, contribute to postgraduate supervision, and build your research profile through international collaboration. You will also contribute to technical reporting and collaborative research activities across the project team.

Selection Criteria

Essential:

• A PhD in electrical and electronic engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, or a related discipline.
• A strong research publication record in relevant international journals and conferences, commensurate with career stage.
• Strong mathematical and algorithmic capability, with demonstrated experience applying machine learning to research problems.
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or MATLAB.
• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and manage research activities independently, prioritise tasks and meet project deadlines.
• Commitment to collaborative research and teamwork.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of information theory and communication theory relevant to wireless communication systems.
• Prior research experience in satellite communications or networking, particularly low Earth orbit (LEO) systems.
• Experience applying machine learning to sequential decision‑making or multi‑agent coordination.
• Experience developing, validating and documenting research simulation software.
• Interest in and ability to contribute to the supervision and mentoring of postgraduate research students.

Diversity & Inclusion

The Faculty of Science and Engineering at Macquarie University has a goal to increase the engagement of women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from diverse backgrounds in STEMM roles. Applications are considered holistically, and candidates are encouraged to apply even if their experience does not meet each individual selection criterion.

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre‑employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role‑required pre‑employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.

At Macquarie University, our human equation for success is You to the Power of Us. It’s an invitation for you to bring your passion and purpose to a campus powered by human collaboration, and where the potential of every person multiplies our ability to achieve remarkable things. Hear from our Vice Chancellor Bruce Dowton.

What We Offer?

• Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
• 17% Superannuation
• Subsidised onsite parking options
• Extensive training and professional development programs
• Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
• Onsite vacation care during school holidays
• Discounted health insurance
• Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
• Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics

Flexible Work

At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Flexible work enables an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. Learn more about our culture and hiring process at our jobs page.

Discover Our Campus

Just 15km from Sydney’s CBD and with access to Australia’s only dedicated university metro station, our Wallumattagal Campus in Macquarie Park offers a vibrant and inspiring place to work—right in one of the world’s greatest cities.

Application Deadline

Applications Close: Friday 30th of October 2026 at 11:59pm (AEST).

Visa Sponsorship

VISA sponsorship available for the successful candidate, subject to eligibility.