Join to apply for the Research Associate - Senior Research Associate - Climate role at UNSW
This role is based in Sydney, Australia.
About The Role
The Research Associate / Senior Research Associate (Level A/B) will take a leading role in developing an artificial intelligence-based foundation model toolbox that utilizes a wide range of historical, global and regional weather and climate data. The toolbox will be general purpose, initially tested on climate risks to agriculture across the Asia-Pacific region, with opportunities to explore other climate change impacts.
The successful applicant will join a team including Professors Andy Pitman and Scott Sisson, along with Dr Anna Ukkola, Elizabeth Vogel, Sanaa Hobeichi and Doug Richardson.
You MUST be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand Special Category Visa holder to apply for this role.
Employment Details
* Level A – ($113k - $121k) / Level B – ($127k - $150k) plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
* Fixed Term – 3 years
* Full-time (35 hours per week)
The role reports to Professor Andy Pitman and has no direct reports.
Responsibilities
LEVEL A
* Contribute to the technical development of an artificial intelligence-based foundation model toolbox, including data wrangling, code development, evaluation and application.
* Engage in collaborative research with the existing team, leading key components at an internationally competitive level.
* Lead and contribute to significant international publications.
* Establish a personal research portfolio within project limits; opportunities to develop independent proposals with senior guidance.
* Support PhD students working on the project, under senior mentorship.
* Be willing to travel to Canberra for an annual workshop.
* Align with the Code of Conduct and Values; comply with health and safety policies.
LEVEL B
* Lead the technical development of the foundation model toolbox (as above).
* Co-lead the intellectual evolution of the Foundation Model by establishing strong international links.
* Mentor and guide PhD students, supported by senior colleagues.
About The Successful Applicant (Selection Criteria)
* A PhD in a related discipline (e.g., Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science) or weather/climate science with very strong technical skills.
* Advanced Python or C++ experience with development and fine-tuning foundation models for modelling tasks, including HPC and multi-GPU programming.
* Knowledge of state-of-the-art AI models and architectures; ideally applied to weather and climate; track record of collaborative coding and sharing (e.g., GitHub).
* Commitment to staying up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
* Proven research track record with high-quality, high-impact outcomes and potential for research leadership.
* Strong communication skills and ability to network with a diverse range of students and staff.
* Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships.
* Understanding of UNSW aims, objectives and values, with relevant policies and guidelines.
* Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and willingness to undertake related training.
* LEVEL B – Additional qualifications: several years of relevant experience post-PhD, experience with Foundation models, leadership potential.
Application Details
Please apply online. Applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.
Contact: Andy Pitman
E: a.pitman@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: October 8, 2025
UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, LGBTIQ+ communities, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability and flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
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