Research Fellow

Our vision to become a world-leading university for our regions will take passion and perseverance. We can’t do it without you.

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University of Newcastle’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities.

We are looking for people to join our university and bring their global expertise to our region, and to take their impactful research to the world with us.

We are driven by our inclusive focus and are proud of our five-star rating for social equity. We are among the first 15 universities in Australia to receive the Bronze Award under the Athena Swan Charter and we’re striving to achieve Silver.

About us

The University’s College of Engineering, Science and Environment (CESE) brings together expertise in engineering, environment, and the sciences to deliver life ready graduates and transformative solutions to our region and the world. CESE strives for excellence, innovation and equity in teaching, education, research and partnerships. We are global leaders uncovering new knowledge, creating revolutionary technology, and delivering innovative teaching.

The School of Engineering is one of the most research-intensive Schools within the University. The School consists of four discipline groupings: Civil and Environmental Engineering and Surveying; Chemical and Renewable Energy Engineering; Aerospace Systems, Electrical, Computer Systems; Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering. The School is home to many leading-edge research centres and has strong links with industry through sponsored undergraduate students and research collaborations.

The School is highly research active, contributing substantially to the overall research inputs and outputs of the CESE. This is reflected in the 2018 Excellence in Research in Australia outcomes where Electrical, Civil, Mechanical and Resource Engineering codes all received an ERA5. 

Be challenged and imagine with us

The School of Engineering is seeking to appoint a Research Fellow within the Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN). You will have the opportunity to work alongside Professor Ajayan Vinu with a centre that aims to establish a global research environment with a high standard and novel ideas for developing technologies for the betterment of society.

The successful candidate will conduct research in nitride-based carbon materials for CO2 capture and conversion as well as providing a high-quality and engaging learning environment for postgraduate students studying a Master of Materials Science and Engineering. You will be defining and developing a research program with the aim of bringing the University of Newcastle to the forefront of material science research.

In this role you will be responsible for:

•  Engaging in research focused on synthesising porous and nanomaterials
• Participating in securing research support from industry and competitive external grants
• Contributing to teaching and teaching development in Masters of Materials Science and Engineering
• Collaborating effectively within a GICAN team setting to enhance future research priorities
• Fostering collaboration amongst University, government, academic and industry stakeholders

How will you inspire us?

The essential criteria for success include:

• A PhD in Chemical Engineering, Physical Chemistry, Chemistry Material Science, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated record of high-quality contribution to research
• Demonstrated recent active supervision of Honours and Masters research projects as well as Higher Degree by Research students
• Demonstrated recent ability to contribute at undergraduate, honours and postgraduate levels
• Demonstrated recent ability to perform in allocated internal roles
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including interdisciplinary ways of working and engagement with industry stakeholders

For the full list of essential and desirable selection criteria, please review the Position Description.

What we offer

This position will be offered as a level B, 2 year, fixed term contract.

The remuneration range is from $108,382 to $128,705 plus 17 % superannuation and leave loading.  

For information on our employee benefits (such as flexible working, discounts in private health insurance and gym memberships and salary packaging) please click here.

The University is committed to being a leader in family-friendly working environments.

Move to Newcastle

A move to Newcastle offers you the choice to live in the city, by the sea or near bushland - the region offers a wonderful place for a family to grow and the opportunity to strike a work/life balance.

Visit the City of Newcastle site to imagine your future in Newcastle.

Let’s be part of something bigger together. 

Visit this page for a guide on how to apply for a role.

Your application must include:

• Your ORCID ID
• A URL link to your University Academic Profile (or equivalent)
• A Cover Letter; outlining your interest in the role
• A statement addressing all of the Essential and Desirable Criteria, as provided in the Position Description (4 pages max)
• Your CV, which should be succinct and discipline appropriate.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document.

For specific position enquiries, please contact Professor Ajayan Vinu on (02) 4921 8669 or via email ajayan.vinu@newcastle.edu.au

Having difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: 4th March 2024 at 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do.  

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