Research Associate in Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering
Position based in Australia.
Opportunity
This position is based within UNSW School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, an internationally recognised center of 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, industry has been revolutionised by advances in automation, digitalisation and artificial intelligence – creating demand for a new breed of engineers. The 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 the Australian Composite Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) project, Advanced Manufacturing of MOF‑Enabled Carbon Composite H₂ Tanks for Heavy Mobility, advancing technologies for hydrogen storage materials and lightweight composite storage vessels in partnership with Rux Energy locally and the National Composites Centre, UK.
Role
The Research Associate (Level A) is expected to contribute to UNSW’s research effort and develop their research expertise. The role reports to Prof Garth Pearce and has no direct reports.
Key Responsibilities
* Contribute to the development of full‑system models of MOF‑enabled hydrogen storage tanks under cryo‑compressed conditions.
* Progress R&D relevant to large format composite and metallic hydrogen storage tanks, such as impact damage prediction and permeability characterisation.
* Work with end users and certification bodies to advance the technology readiness level (TRL) and certification pathways for novel hydrogen tanks.
Compensation and Employment
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. We’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community, doing extraordinary things. What differentiates us is how we do it – 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 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 relevant to this 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.
* 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 training.
Additional Details
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 Thursday 4th December 2025
EEO
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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr