Research Associate - Senior Research Associate - Climate

UNSW; Toronto; On-site; CAD 103,000 - 112,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university is seeking a Research Associate/Senior Research Associate to develop an AI-based foundation model toolbox aimed at climate research. This full-time position involves leading technical developments, mentoring PhD students, and contributing to collaborative publications. Candidates must hold a PhD in a relevant field and possess advanced Python or C++ skills, as well as experience with AI models. Salary is competitive, and applications close on October 8, 2025.

Benefits

17% Superannuation

Annual leave loading

Qualifications

• A PhD in a relevant field is required for Level A.
• Commitment to ongoing discipline knowledge and research excellence.
• Ability to lead and collaborate across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to developing an AI foundation model toolbox.
• Lead the technical development of the toolbox at Level B.
• Mentor PhD students and engage in collaborative research.

Skills

Advanced Python

C++

AI models

Collaborative coding

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

PhD in Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related field

Tools

HPC

Multi-GPU programming

Job description

Overview

Overview? Join to apply for the Research Associate - Senior Research Associate - Climate role at UNSW .

This role is located in Sydney, Australia. The Research Associate / Senior Research Associate (Level A / B) will take a leading role in developing an artificial intelligence–based foundation model toolbox that uses historical, global and regional weather and climate data. The toolbox will be a general-purpose tool, initially tested on climate risks to agriculture across the Asia-Pacific region, with opportunities to explore other climate-change impacts.

Responsibilities

• Level A – contribute to the technical development of an AI foundation model toolbox (data wrangling, code development, evaluation and application); engage in collaborative research and lead key components at an internationally competitive level; contribute to significant international publications; establish a personal research portfolio and develop independent proposals under senior guidance; support PhD students; be willing to travel to Canberra for an annual workshop; align with the university Code of Conduct and Values; comply with health and safety policies.
• Level B – in addition to Level A, lead the technical development of the toolbox; co-lead the intellectual evolution of the Foundation Model with international links; mentor PhD students.

Qualifications / Selection Criteria

• Level A : A PhD in Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related field (weather / climate science acceptable with strong technical skills).
• Advanced Python or C++ with experience developing and fine-tuning foundation models; experience with HPC and multi-GPU programming.
• Knowledge of state-of-the-art AI models and architectures; track record of collaborative coding and code sharing (e.g., GitHub).
• Commitment to ongoing discipline knowledge and research excellence; ability to lead and collaborate across disciplines; strong interpersonal and organisational skills; alignment with UNSW values; knowledge of health and safety responsibilities.
• Level B : Several years of relevant experience post-PhD; experience with Foundation models (development or evaluation); ability to drive knowledge development and leadership potential.

Employment Details

• Level A salary : $113k–$121k; Level B salary : $127k–$150k plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed term : 3 years
• Full-time : 35 hours per week

Application & Contact

You must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand Special Category Visa holder to apply for this role.

Please apply online. Applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Contact : Andy Pitman

Applications close : October 8, 2025

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and Indigenous Australians are encouraged. The University provides workplace adjustments and flexible work options where eligible. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.