• Based in College of Science in School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences at the City East Campus
• Full-time, 4 year fixed term contract
• Salary Range: $82,838 - $111,384 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters 

A Postdoctoral Researcher – Soft Glass and Fibre Development position is available within the Australian Research Council (ARC) funded research program “Breaking through the manufacturing ‘glass ceiling’ for ZBLAN glass fibres”. The aim of this broader program is to develop fluoride glass fibres with significantly improved optical quality, enabling long-distance light transmission, emerging mid-infrared lasers and light sources, with potential use across industries including defence, mining, medical devices, and data communications.

You will undertake high-quality research as part of a collaborative team, while progressively developing your capacity to work independently. You will contribute to the design and delivery of research activities, including experimental design, advanced laboratory techniques and the operation of specialised equipment, to support the successful achievement of project objectives. The role includes analysing and communicating research findings through publications and conference presentations, contributing to research-related teaching activities where appropriate, maintaining accurate research records, and supporting postgraduate students within your area of expertise. You will also participate in research administration, professional development, and collaborative activities across the research group, University and broader research community.

Curious to learn more? Don’t hesitate to contact us.

The team

The successful candidate will work as part of the Photonic Materials & Optical Fibres research group at the Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) through the School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences (PCES) to make significant contributions to the:

• Development of novel and advanced tellurite and fluoride glass compositions
• Development of novel and advanced methods of tellurite and fluoride glass fabrication and processing
• Characterisation of fabricated glass, preforms and fibres to monitor the composition and fabrication development
• Close collaboration with the broader team working on the ZBLAN optical fibres research program.

Visit the AU website to learn more about Photonic Materials & Optical Fibres. 

Our people  

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role is perfect for a highly motivated, proactive and resourceful researcher with outstanding problem-solving skills and the ability to independently investigate and overcome complex experimental challenges. You possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, enabling you to build effective relationships and communicate confidently with researchers, industry partners, government agencies and the broader community.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience 

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience: 

• PhD or equivalent degree (or thesis submitted) in materials science, physics, chemistry or related discipline.
• Laboratory experience in tellurite and fluoride glass fabrication and processing, including melting, casting, extrusion, drawing, with the ability to rapidly learn new techniques.
• Laboratory experience in optical glass and fibre characterization, particularly in spectroscopy, microscopy, and fibre loss measurements, with the ability to rapidly learn new techniques.
• Demonstrated research excellence in tellurite and fluoride glass and fibre development.
• Demonstrated publication track record in leading scientific journals and conferences.
• Outstanding problem-solving skills with the ability to perform independent research and creatively tackle experimental challenges.
• Good verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills, including the ability to liaise and communicate effectively with professional and industry bodies, government and members of the community.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills along with meticulous research record-keeping and timely completion of project milestones

Desirable:

• PhD in relevant area.
• Laboratory experience in preform preparation and fibre drawing for tellurite and ZBLAN glass.
• Experience in research on understanding the effect of gravity on glass flow behaviour.
• Ability to co-supervise Higher Degree by Research students.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. 

Launch your future with Adelaide University now

Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload: 

• your current CV 
• a cover letter

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.

Submit your application by 11:30pm Wednesday 26 August 2026

Please note that the role description is not attached to this advertisement as it is currently being finalised.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 493301): 

Jessica De Lorenzo

Team Lead, Talent Acquisition
+61 8 8302 1700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au  

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