Research Associate – School of Civil & Environmental Engineering (UNSW Kensington)

UNSW; Sheffield (TX); On-site; USD 66,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

UNSW is seeking a Research Associate to contribute to an innovative project on a scaled boundary framework for dynamic nonlinear analysis of large-scale structures. The role reports to Professor Chongmin Song and carries no direct reports.

The position is full-time (35 hours/week) on a fixed-term contract for 12 months, based in Kensington, Sydney. The successful candidate will conduct independent research, publish in journals, and collaborate across disciplines, with strong programming and

Qualifications

• PhD in a related discipline is required.
• Ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Proven publication record and conference presentations.
• Experience developing numerical methods evidenced by publications.
• Strong programming skills demonstrated by PhD research.
• Commitment to staying up-to-date with discipline developments.
• Ability to collaborate across disciplines and build relationships.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct high-quality research on scalable boundary frameworks for dynamic nonlinear analysis.
• Develop numerical methods and simulation tools.
• Publish results in journals and present at conferences.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
• Report to Professor Chongmin Song with no direct reports.

Skills

Numerical methods

Programming

Publications

Collaboration

Interdisciplinary work

Education

PhD in related discipline

Tools

Python

MATLAB

C++

Job description

The Opportunity

The project aims to develop an innovative scaled boundary framework leveraging the power of modern computer facilities needed for dynamic nonlinear analysis of large-scale structures. Modern digital technologies for geometric modelling will be seamlessly integrated with computational mechanics. The outcome of this project is an innovative technology and a computer simulation tool that will be robust, fully automated and highly efficient. The role of Research Associate reports to Professor Chongmin Song and has no direct reports.

• Salary, Level A - $95,036 - $126,711 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full Time: 35 hours
• Fixed-term contract for 12 months
• 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 Faculty of Engineering at UNSW continues to be a national and international leader in engineering research and education, cementing its status as the University's premier research faculty. As the largest Engineering Faculty in Australia, it graduates the highest number of engineers and maintains the largest research expenditure in the country. Through excellence in both fundamental and applied research, the Faculty strives to sustain and further its global impact, aiming to be ranked among the top engineering faculties worldwide. For more information, visit the Faculty website: https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/about-us

Skills & Experience

• A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
• 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.
• Previous experience on developing numerical methods as evidenced by journal publications.
• Strong ability and skills in computer programming as demonstrated by PhD research and refereed journal publications.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• 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.

Pre-Employment Checks

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.

Compliance with the necessary combination of these checks is a condition of employment at UNSW.

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

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Monday 9th November 2026

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.