Research Associate – Free Space Optical Communications
Job no: 523447
Work type: Full Time
Location: Crawley
Categories: Science
Benefits
* 26 weeks paid parental leave after one year and 36 weeks after five years continuous service, regardless of gender.
* 4 weeks annual leave with the option to purchase more.
* 13 weeks long service leave after seven/ten years.
* Salary packaging options.
* 17% superannuation, with the option to reduce to the minimum super guarantee.
* Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses.
* Discounted health insurance, and convenient on-campus childcare options.
* Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.
About the area
The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) is a joint venture between Curtin University and The University of Western Australia (UWA), established in 2009 and funded through 2030 with $65 million from the WA State Government. ICRAR is a leading institution in radio astronomy and a key Australian contributor to the global SKA project. The Astrophotonics Group within ICRAR develops advanced photonic systems for radio and optical astronomy, with a focus on long-distance transfer of stabilised frequency and timing signals via optical fibre and free-space laser links.
About the opportunity
* Contribute to a small research team conducting research on free-space optical communication, specifically optimised for operations within maritime environments.
* Work within a UWA small team and contribute to collaborations with project partner organisations including industry, government, and defence.
* Conduct technical work including laboratory experiments and hardware development, software and algorithm development, optical communications development, and assist with maritime and airborne field trials.
About you
* Completed 4 years of tertiary study or equivalent qualifications and experience with software, programming, simulation, and algorithm development (Python or MATLAB).
* Capability to conduct research and development on free-space optical communication, specifically optimised for operations within maritime environments.
* Ability to work independently, show initiative, problem solve and work productively as part of a team.
* Strong documentation and version control practices (e.g., Git).
Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.
Hiring restrictions
This position is only open to applicants with Australian citizenship/PR, or citizenship of NATO/five eyes countries and with relevant rights to work in Australia.
Potential contract extension
While not guaranteed, fixed-term contracts may be extended beyond the contract end date subject to funding and at the school’s sole discretion, the school will advise you sufficiently ahead of time should this be the case.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.
We require any reasonable adjustments to be appropriately requested at the time of application.
Date Information
Applications close: 01 Jun 2026 W. Australia Standard Time
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