Research AssociateSenior Research Associate in Photovoltaic Engineering

The Opportunity

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) has an opportunity to build models and analyse results related to the manufacturing cost of solar modules along the entire PV value chain in different locations and under different supportive and protective policy environments.

This position will work with industry partners and partner institutions with the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP) focusing on projects including the financial environmental and policy assessment of diversification of the PV manufacturing supply chain the techno-economics of using Ultra Low Cost Solar to decarbonise hard to abate industries and techno-economic analysis of developing PV technologies

This role reports to Dr Nathan Chang and has no direct reports.

• Level A Salary AUD $113911 to $121838 per annum 17% superannuation
  (Level B available for the right candidate: $127947 to $150830 per annum 17% Super)
• Full Time (Part Time is also available)
• Fixed-term contract 1 year (potential for extension)
• 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.

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering is internationally recognised for its record-breaking research in solar power (photovoltaics) and renewable energy. The PERC solar cell was first invented at UNSW in our labs in 1983 and today powers more than 85% of all new solar panel modules all over the world. SPREEs work and people have changed the face of sustainable energy on the global stage and we continue to be at the forefront of leading-edge research and development in the field of renewable technology as our economies transition away from fossil fuels. For more information please see the following link:

We offer a flexible hybrid work environment that supports work-life balance while encouraging regular in-person collaboration. Team members are generally expected to spend time on campus as needed and typically work from the office at least one day per week.

While the role is based in Sydney we welcome applications from exceptional candidates based elsewhere who can demonstrate strong alignment with the role and are able to attend key meetings and events on site when required.

Skills & Experience:

Level A -

• A PhD in a related discipline and/or relevant work experience.
• Experience with modelling using ideally python or similar or excel. Ideally modelling manufacturing processes from a financial/business perspective butmodelling systems of similar complexity and size would also be acceptable.
• Experience with analysing and documenting outputs of modelling such as scientific papers industry reports company decision making reports.
• Experience with identifying data needs and obtaining input data from publications and other public sources from collaborators and co-workers.
• 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.
  
  

Level B -

• Demonstrated track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact with clear evidence of the desire and ability to continually achieve research excellence as well as the capacity for research leadership.
• A track record of significant involvement with the profession and/or industry.
• High level communication skills and ability to network effectively and interact with a diverse range of students and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal and organisational skills.

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position 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.

Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia and be available to work on-site in Kensington.

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Monday 27^th October 2025

Contact:

Allyssar Hamoud Talent Acquisition Associate
E:

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.