Research Associate in Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering

The Opportunity

This position is based within UNSW School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering. The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering is internationally recognised for its 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 schools foundation in 1949 the engineering industry has been revolutionised by changes in manufacturing such as automation digitalisation and artificial intelligence. This new technology has created demand for a new breed of engineers. Our school has over 90 staff and more than 2500 students across undergraduate postgraduate masters by coursework and PhD research study. The role is part of an interdisciplinary team working on an Australian Composite Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) project Advanced Manufacturing of MOF-Enabled Carbon Composite H2 Tanks for Heavy Mobility. The team are advancing technologies for hydrogen storage materials and lightweight composite storage vessels. The project includes industry partners locally (Rux Energy) and internationally (National Composites Centre UK).

The Research Associate (Level A) is expected to contribute towards the research effort of UNSW and to develop their research expertise. The role of Research Associate reports to Prof Garth Pearce and has no direct reports. The research activities may include:

• 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

Salary Level A - $91381 - $121838 per annum 17% superannuation

• Full time
• Fixed-term contract to September 2026
• Location: Kensington Sydney Australia

About UNSW

UNSW isnt like other places youve worked. Yes were a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isnt only what we do its how we do it. Together we are driven to be thoughtful practical and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive be challenged and do meaningful work youre 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 proactively 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 relative to 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.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSWs aims objectives and values in action together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for these positions can be found in the position description. This is available via

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:

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Thursday 4^th December 2025

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.