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The Opportunity

The School of Civil and Environmental Engineering has an opportunity for a Research Associate. You will contribute as a key team member to collaborative research focusing on sustainable wastewater management. The successful candidate will contribute as a key team member to an ARC Linkage Project dedicated to developing and demonstrating an innovative zero-emission nitrogen removal process. This project aims to advance next-generation biological technologies for wastewater treatment that eliminate greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing energy efficiency and resource recovery, driving Australia’s transition toward carbon-neutral water infrastructure.

This position will give you the opportunity to develop your scholarly research and professional activities by supporting the dissemination of research outcomes through appropriate channels and outlets and work closely with our industry partners. You will also have the opportunity to participate in conferences and workshops, assist with the supervision of students, and have active engagement with fellow researchers.

This role reports to Scientia Associate Professor Min Zheng and has no direct reports.

• Salary, Level A, Step 6 – AUD $113,911 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full time
• Fixed-term contract – 3 years
• 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 Civil and Environmental Engineering is in the Faculty of Engineering and has over 3,300 students and an operating budget of over $22 million. The School has 55 full time academic staff, 35 professional and technical staff and 80 research only appointments. The School’s mission is to develop well-educated graduates with the essential skills, attributes and knowledge that will enable them to practice as professional civil or environmental engineers; and to conduct research and development of international distinction to meet the needs of the discipline, industry and society. For further information about the School, please visit http://www.civeng.unsw.edu.au/

Skills and Experience

• A PhD in Environmental, Civil or Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience developing technologies for wastewater management.
• Proven commitment to staying at the forefront of discipline knowledge and innovations, with a strong understanding of the Australian water industry context.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high-quality academic research and conduct independent studies 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.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

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.

Contact:

Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant

E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Tuesday 11^th November 2025

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.

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