Research Associate – Defence Trailblazer (x2)

This Job is based in Australia

• Participate in projects involving real robotics systems
• Develop expertise in cutting-edge AI and robotics technologies
• Collaborate with industry partners, potentially opening doors for future opportunities
  
  
  

In partnership with industry, University of Adelaide (UoA) and UNSW, the Defence Trailblazer is strengthening Australia’s defence sovereign capabilities through the commercialisation of new technologies and solutions, coupled with the development of specialised knowledge and skills for the current and future workforce to meet the needs of defence.

The Opportunities

Reporting to the Grant Lead Investigator, these Research Associate positions (Ref 531176 and 531364) are based in the School of Engineering and Technology at UNSW Canberra. The successful candidates will conduct research focused on demonstrating a decentralised framework for coordinating swarms of small UAS. Responsibilities include developing research outcomes and publishing results in conferences and international journals.

About You:

• Both roles require strong programming skills in Python or C/C
• Independent, innovative research capabilities
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and time-management skills
• Commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives, and values in action, and health and safety responsibilities.
  
  
  

Additional Unique Requirements For Each Position Are Outlined Below.

Research Associate – Ref 531176

• Type: Full-time, fixed-term contract up to 18 months
• Salary: $88,290 – $117,718 (minimum $110,059 with PhD) 17% super
  
  
  

Focus on research on demonstrating a decentralized framework for coordinating swarms of small UAS. Ideal candidates will have skills in software development for autonomous UAS.

Skills And Experience:

• A relevant degree in science or engineering, with substantial relevant experience.
• A higher research degree (PhD) in robotics, control, or a related field is highly regarded.
• Experience with Uncrewed Aerial Systems and/or real robotics experiments is desirable.
  
  
  

Research Associate – Ref 531364

• Type: Full-time (9-month fixed-term contract) or Part-time (fixed-term, equivalent hours)
• Salary: $88,290 – $117,718 (minimum $110,059 with PhD) 17% super (pro rata for part-time)
  
  
  

Focus on the development of software algorithms for the decentralized coordination of swarms of small UAS. Ideal candidates will have expertise in swarming algorithms and/or multi-robot coordination.

Skills And Experience:

• A PhD in a related discipline or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience with swarm control algorithms and/or multi-robot system coordination is highly regarded
  
  
  

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. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. Taking this combined approach is what makes our work matter. It’s the reason we’re one of the top 50 universities in the world and a member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

Benefits And Culture:

People are at the core of everything we do. We recognise it is the contributions of our staff who make UNSW one of the best universities in Australia and the world. Our benefits include:

• Flexible/Hybrid working
• Career development opportunities
• 17% Superannuation contributions and additional leave loading payments
• Additional 3 days of leave over Christmas period
• Discounts and entitlements (retail, education, fitness)
  
  
  

Pre-employment Checks Required For These Positions

• Verification of qualifications
• Criminal History Check
• Identification Check
• Australian Work Rights Check
  
  
  

Note: Visa sponsorship is not available for these appointments. The successful candidates may be required to hold or attain an Australian government security clearance.

How to Apply: Make each day matter with a meaningful career at UNSW. Submit your application online before 11.55pm, Sunday 13th April 2025. Please ensure you submit a CV, Cover Letter and responses to Skills and Experience required.

Contacts:

Shiree Thomas – Talent Acquisition Consultant e: shiree.thomas@unsw.edu.au

Professor Matthew Garratt e: m.garratt@unsw.edu.au

Please apply through the application portal and not via the contacts above.

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.