Overview
Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Consumer Energy Resources (x2 positions) at UNSW. The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) invites applications for a Research Associate (Level A) or Senior Research Associate (Level B) to join a team of academics, post-doctoral researchers and post-graduate research students. The team collaborates with industry partners and with researchers across UNSW faculties via UNSW’s Collaboration on Energy and Environmental Markets (CEEM). CEEM undertakes interdisciplinary research on improving the economic and environmental sustainability of the Australian National Electricity Market and other electricity industries worldwide.
Work will involve energy systems data analysis and modelling, and the development of open-source tools to support the energy transition of Consumer Energy Resources (CER). More information is available at www.ceem.unsw.edu.au.
Responsibilities
* Handle and analyse large real-world datasets from consumer energy resources (CER) such as rooftop PV, batteries, and electric vehicles (EVs).
* Query and manipulate large real-world datasets from different databases and platforms (AWS, SQL, Azure).
* Create new algorithms to analyse compliance of CER with relevant Australian standards (AS 4777.2020.2, CSIP-AUS, IEEE).
* Create new algorithms to analyse CER curtailment under relevant standards and the Emergency Backstop Mechanism (EBM).
* Develop open-source tools to assist DNSPs and network operators in managing and planning CER operations.
* Create data visualisations to understand the value of CER and to explore emerging challenges with increasing CER penetration in distribution networks and at the system level.
* Engage with industry partners via regular meetings, presentations and industry reports.
Qualifications
Level A (Research Associate):
* A PhD or equivalent research experience in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
* Experience in technical and economic modelling of renewable generation or distributed energy resources, including energy storage and demand-side participation, and related aspects of energy user behaviour, distribution network implications, and integration into electricity industry operation or planning.
* Expertise in analysis and modelling using large energy-related datasets, including formal statistical analysis and the use of AI such as pattern recognition and machine learning.
* Desirable: experience with development and management of large energy data sets.
* Independent researcher with the ability to progress projects independently, with a pro-active, innovative mindset.
* Interest or experience in developing open-source modelling tools for broader stakeholder use.
* Desirable: experience interacting with electricity networks, market institutions and distributed energy businesses in Australia.
* Commitment to staying up-to-date with discipline knowledge and developments; capable of high-quality independent research and publications; ability to work in a team and communicate with diverse stakeholders.
Level B (Senior Research Associate):
* All Level A qualifications plus: demonstrated track record of research with high quality and impact, potential for research leadership, significant involvement with the profession/industry, open-source code repository maintenance, and strong networking abilities.
* Ability to build networks with colleagues and secure funding or industry projects through external liaison.
Salary and Terms
* Salary:
o Level A, Research Associate - AUD$113,911 to $121,838 per annum + 17% superannuation
o Level B, Senior Research Associate - AUD$127,947 to $150,830 per annum + 17% superannuation
* Full time
* Fixed-term contract – Until December 2027
* Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia
Application Details
To Apply: Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. Address the Skills and Experience listed in the position description. 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 28 September 2025.
Contact: Allyssar Hamoud – Talent Acquisition Associate; E: a.hamoud@unsw.edu.au
Equal Opportunity
UNSW is committed to equity and an inclusive community. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, people with disability, and those with caring responsibilities. Reasonable workplace adjustments and flexible work options are available where eligible. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
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