Senior Research Associate

University of New South Wales; Sydney; On-site; AUD 133,000 - 157,000; Full time

Job summary

University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, invites applications for a Senior Research Associate to conduct research in Tribology and Machine Condition Monitoring. You will develop vibration-based techniques to detect faults in machine components and contribute to high‑quality scholarly outputs.

This full‑time, fixed‑term 12-month appointment offers AUD 133,065 to 156,864 per year plus 17% superannuation, with opportunities to mentor students and lead independent research proposals.

Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• At least two years of postdoctoral research experience.
• Experience in machine condition monitoring, vibration analysis, or related areas.
• Proven record of high-quality research outputs and leadership potential.
• Active engagement with professional networks and industry.
• Ability to mentor students and early-career researchers.

Responsibilities

• Lead vibration-based research to detect faults in machines.
• Collaborate across disciplines and supervise higher degree research.
• Contribute to funding proposals and scholarly publications.

Skills

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Postdoctoral research experience

Vibration analysis

Research leadership

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

University of New South Wales – Kensington NSW

Job Type: Permanent position | Full time position

Job Description

The Opportunity The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at the University of New South Wales is seeking a Senior Research Associate to conduct research within the Tribology and Machine Condition Monitoring group.

In this role, you will develop new vibration-based techniques to improve the detection, diagnosis and prognosis of faults in machine components, working both independently and collaboratively as part of the research team. This position will give you the opportunity to build your research profile, contribute to high-quality scholarly outputs and develop independent research proposals. You will also contribute to competitive funding applications, participate in research collaborations, and support the development of students and emerging researchers through mentoring and higher degree research supervision.

Salary, Level B: AUD $133,065 to $156,864 per annum + 17% superannuation Employment type: Full time Appointment type: Fixed-term contract – 12 months Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia About us 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 academic expertise translates into real-world outcomes.

The university is home to cutting-edge research that drives innovation and societal progress, while its excellence in teaching ensures students are prepared to lead in their fields. For academics, UNSW offers an outstanding platform to flourish — combining world-class facilities, collaborative networks, and a culture of innovation that supports both career growth and meaningful contributions to the wider community. The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering that is internationally recognised for its excellence in research and teaching.

Our mission is to nurture students to become industry leaders who will generate societal, economic, and environmental benefits. The School is one of the largest and most prestigious schools Australia for thriving research programs and contribution to education excellence in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, Robotics and Mechatronic Engineering. Our Schools QS ranking for 2025 is #46 globally and the highest in Australia.

For further information on our school, go to

• https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/mechanical-and-manufacturing-engineering

Skills & Experience

• A PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
• At least two years of experience in a postdoctoral position (or similar) conducting research in one or more of the following fields: machine condition monitoring and diagnostics, vibration analysis, signal processing, modal analysis, experimental vibration analysis, or a related discipline.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact with clear evidence of the desire and ability to continually achieve research excellence as well as the capacity for research leadership.
• A track record of significant involvement with the profession and/or industry.
• High level communication skills and ability to network effectively and interact with a diverse range of students and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal and organisational skills.
• 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.

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Friday 16 October 2026

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. 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, 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.