Research Associate x 2 positions

Help shape the future of sustainable manufacturing and critical materials researchFull-time, fixed-term positions x 2 (Until Sept 2026) at our Hawthorn campusAcademic Level A salary + 17% super and staff benefitsAre you ready to push the boundaries of advanced materials research and make a real impact on Australia’s sustainable manufacturing future?About The RoleWe are seeking two talented and driven Research Associates to join an exciting project funded through Australia’s Economic Accelerator Innovate scheme.The project, Scaling Up Sovereign Powder Manufacturing of Critical Materials Through Sustainable Advanced Materials Innovation (IV240100036), is focused on strengthening Australia’s sovereign capability in advanced materials and transforming how we manufacture critical resources. These roles will combine hands-on research, metallography, prototyping, and testing with cutting-edge computational modelling — directly contributing to innovations that support a more sustainable and self-reliant future.This is an opportunity to be part of a nationally significant project with real-world impact on Australia’s energy and manufacturing sectors. You’ll work in a collaborative team of researchers who are driving innovation in advanced materials, with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, specialist equipment, and advanced computational tools. The project bridges industry needs and academic excellence, giving you opportunities to publish, present at leading conferences, and engage with industry partners. With two positions available, you’ll also benefit from joining a strong cohort of peers working towards shared goals.As a Research Associate, you will:Apply your expertise in materials science (physical metallurgy, additive manufacturing, and materials testing) to deliver key outcomes.Design and conduct complex experiments, including setting up and operating advanced equipment.Use CALPHAD simulations to predict phase characteristics.Lead computational modelling with tools such as Abaqus and Ansys.Develop and validate new test protocols aligned with industry partner requirements.Prepare high-quality technical reports and communicate findings effectively to diverse audiences.About YouTo be suitable for this role you will bring:Strong expertise in the development of high-entropy based materials, surface engineering and materials engineering.Proven experience in experimental research and advanced computational modelling.A collaborative and problem-solving mindset, with the ability to work independently.Excellent written and oral communication skills to engage with academic, industry, and government stakeholders.QualificationsAttainment of, or significant process toward attaining, a Doctoral degree in relevant area (e.g. material science, mechanical engineering)About Swinburne University Of TechnologySwinburne’s strategy draws upon our understanding of future challenges. We choose to build Swinburne as the prototype of a new and different university – one that is truly of Technology, of Innovation and of Entrepreneurship. We are committed to a differentiated university proposition in education and research.What We Offer You!Work your way with flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options and generous parental leave to support a balanced lifestyle. Exclusive staff discounts, including discounted Medibank health insurance, 50% off Swinburne courses and other partner offers.Swinburne offers 17% super and salary packaging options, including car leasing and extra super contributions.Want to learn more? Head over to ourbenefits page!To ApplyPlease submit your CV, cover letter addressing your suitability for this position and a formal response to the Key Selection Criteria as stated within the position description.This role has been re-advertised; previous applicants need not re-apply.To review the Position Description and to apply, please scroll down to the bottom of the page.If you are viewing this advert from an external site, please click‘apply’and you will be redirected to Swinburne’s Jobs website to access the Position Description at the bottom of the page.Please Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children Check.If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application, please contact the Swinburne Talent Acquisition Team ontalentacquisition@swin.edu.auApplications Close: Thursday 13 November 2025, at 11.00pm Swinburne offers flexible working options contained in our leave and parenting/carer policies to support work-life balance.Diversity, Equity and InclusionSwinburne has become a world-class university, driving social and economic impacts through science, technology, and innovation. As a dual-sector university, our vision is for people and technology working together to build a better world.Central to our vision is our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We pride ourselves on being an equal opportunity employer focused on attracting, retaining, and developing great talent. We work to remove barriers related to gender identity, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and age.We strongly encourage applicants from diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our Moondani Toombadool Centre leads our Indigenous education and culture at Swinburne, guided by community wisdom and leadership.We support applicants with disabilities. Adjustments can be requested at any time during the recruitment process. For Reasonable Adjustment requests, including accessible formats for the PD, application form or any other document, please contactDCR@swin.edu.auor call +61 3 9214 3550.Please note the above number and DCR email address are for disability or reasonable adjustments queries only. General enquiries about the role can be sent to talentacquisition@swin.edu.au (general enquiries will not be answered by phone).Victoria’s Commitment to Action: Improving international student employment outcomes.As a signatory toVictoria’s Commitment to Action, Swinburne seeks to remove barriers to international graduate employment. We welcome and encourage applications from international graduates.As a Circle Back Initiative Employer, we commit to responding to every applicant.