The Opportunity

This position is based within UNSW School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering is internationally recognised for its excellence in research and teaching. Our mission is to nurture students to become industry leaders who will generate societal, economic and environmental benefits. Since the school’s foundation in 1949, the engineering industry has been revolutionised by changes in manufacturing such as automation, digitalisation and artificial intelligence. This new technology has created demand for a new breed of engineers. Our school has over 90 staff and more than 2,500 students, across undergraduate, postgraduate, master’s by coursework and PhD research study. The role is part of an interdisciplinary team working on an Australian Composite Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) project, Advanced Manufacturing of MOF-Enabled Carbon Composite H2 Tanks for Heavy Mobility. The team are advancing technologies for hydrogen storage materials and lightweight composite storage vessels. The project includes industry partners locally (Rux Energy) and internationally (National Composites Centre, UK).

The Research Associate (Level A) is expected to contribute towards the research effort of UNSW and to develop their research expertise. The role of Research Associate reports to Prof Garth Pearce and has no direct reports. The research activities may include:

• Investigating the mechanical and adsorbent properties of advanced hydrogen storage materials
• Contributing to the development of full-system models of MOF-enabled hydrogen storage tanks
• Progressing R&D relevant to large format hydrogen storage tanks, such as impact damage assessment and permeability measurement

Salary, Level A - $91,381 - $121,838 per annum + 17% superannuation

• Full time
• Fixed-term contract to September 2026
• 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.

Skills & Experience

Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

• A PhD (or equivalent) in a related discipline, such as Mechanical/Aerospace/Materials/Manufacturing Engineering.
• 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.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, 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 these positions 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.

Contact:

Allyssar Hamoud – Talent Acquisition Associate
E: a.hamoud@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on 1^st October 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.