Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Photovoltaic Engineering

UNSW; Sydney; Hybrid; CAD 103,000 - 111,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Sydney is seeking a candidate for a role in the School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering. This position focuses on building models to analyze the manufacturing costs of solar modules. The ideal applicant holds a PhD or equivalent experience and has demonstrated skills in modelling and analytical documentation within the renewable energy sector. A flexible, hybrid work setup is offered.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid work environment

Commitment to diversity and inclusion

Qualifications

• PhD in related discipline or relevant work experience required.
• Experience with modelling processes from a financial perspective.
• Experience in academic research with publications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Build models and analyze results on solar module costs.
• Collaborate with industry partners on PV supply chain projects.
• Conduct techno-economic analysis for developing PV technologies.

Skills

Modelling using Python or similar

Analysing and documenting outputs

Identifying data needs

Ability to conduct independent research

Collaborating across disciplines

Communicating with diverse stakeholders

Education

PhD in a related discipline

Tools

Excel

Job description

The Opportunity

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) has an opportunity to build models and analyse results related to the manufacturing cost of solar modules along the entire PV value chain, in different locations and under different supportive and protective policy environments.

This position will work with industry partners and partner institutions with the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP), focusing on projects including the financial, environmental and policy assessment of diversification of the PV manufacturing supply chain, the techno‑economics of using Ultra Low Cost Solar to decarbonise hard to abate industries, and techno-economic analysis of developing PV technologies.

This role reports to Dr Nathan Chang and has no direct reports.

• Level A, Salary – AUD $113,911 to $121,838 per annum + 17% superannuation (Level B available for the right candidate: $127,947 to $150,830 per annum + 17% Super)
• Full Time (Part Time is also available)
• Fixed‑term contract – 1 year (potential for extension)
• 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 School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering is internationally recognised for its record-breaking research in solar power (photovoltaics) and renewable energy. The PERC solar cell was first invented at UNSW in our labs in 1983 and today powers more than 85% of all new solar panel modules all over the world. SPREE’s work and people have changed the face of sustainable energy on the global stage, and we continue to be at the forefront of leading‑edge research and development in the field of renewable technology as our economies transition away from fossil fuels. For more information, please see the following link: https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/photovoltaic-and-renewable-energy-engineering

We offer a flexible, hybrid work environment that supports work‑life balance while encouraging regular in‑person collaboration. Team members are generally expected to spend time on campus as needed and typically work from the office at least one day per week.

While the role is based in Sydney, we welcome applications from exceptional candidates based elsewhere who can demonstrate strong alignment with the role and are able to attend key meetings and events on site when required.

Skills & Experience

Level A

• A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
• Experience with modelling using ideally python or similar or excel. Ideally modelling manufacturing processes from a financial/business perspective, but modelling systems of similar complexity and size would also be acceptable.
• Experience with analysing and documenting outputs of modelling, such as scientific papers, industry reports, company decision making reports.
• Experience with identifying data needs and obtaining input data from publications and other public sources, from collaborators and co‑workers.
• 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.

Level B

• 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.

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

To Apply

Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application. Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia and be available to work on‑site in Kensington.

Applications close

11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Monday 27 October 2025

Contact

Allyssar Hamoud – Talent Acquisition Associate
E: [e-mail]

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.