Research Associate/Senior Research Associate (Formal Methods)

Research Associate/Senior Research Associate (Formal Methods) – Scope: Research Associate (Level A) / Senior Research Associate (Level B, Step 1) at UNSW

This position is based in Kensington, Sydney, Australia, and is a 2‑year fixed‑term contract (full time).

Opportunity

The Trustworthy Systems (TS) Research Group, part of UNSW’s School of Computer Science and Engineering, conducts leading research on mathematically provable software systems. The candidate will contribute to proof technique development for systems software and apply them to real‑world verification projects, including the PISTIs‑V initiative which involves linking correctness proofs of user‑mode components to the seL4 specification, compositional reasoning for system‑level properties, formalising security policies and their enforcement, and creating timing‑analytics frameworks for mixed‑criticality systems.

The role provides opportunities to develop research output through scientific papers, conferences, workshops, supervision of research students, and industry engagement.

Salary

• Research Associate (Level A) – AUD $110,059 to $117,718 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Senior Research Associate (Level B, Step 1) – AUD $127,947 per annum + 17% superannuation

Responsibilities

• Develop proof techniques for systems software and implement them in verification projects.
• Contribute to the PISTIs‑V project, including connecting proofs to the seL4 specification and formalising security policies.
• Write and publish scientific papers and reports for international journals.
• Participate in conferences and workshops.
• Supervise research students (honours and postgraduate).
• Engage with industry partners on research collaboration.
• Report directly to Scientia Professor Gernot Heiser; no direct staff reports.

Qualifications & Experience

• PhD in computer science or related field with a focus on formal methods (completed or near completion).
• Experience with interactive theorem proving (Isabelle/HOL, HOL4, Coq, etc.) and/or proving security properties using model checkers or SMT solvers.
• Experience with formalisation of security models and properties.
• Familiarity with current research in formal methods, especially applied to program verification.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct high‑quality academic research independently.
• Strong publication record in formal methods and related venues.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and build relationships.
• Excellent communication skills for diverse stakeholders and students.
• Initiative, enthusiasm, and highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to UNSW’s values and relevant policies.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and willingness to complete relevant training.

Additional Details

Full responsibilities are available in the position description (access via JOBS@UNSW).

To Apply

Submit your CV, Cover Letter, and responses to the Skills and Experience. Address each listed requirement fully. Applications to other contacts will not be accepted.

Contact

Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant
E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 18 January 2026.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

UNSW encourages applications from all backgrounds, including diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, and those with caring and family responsibilities. Workplace adjustments for people with disability and flexible work options are available. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.