Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Job No.: 699118
Location: Clayton campus
Employment Type: Full-time
Duration: 12 month fixed-term appointment
Remuneration: $86,195 - $116,981 pa Level A (plus 17% employer superannuation)
- Amplify your impact at a world top 50 University
- Join our inclusive, collaborative community
- Be surrounded by extraordinary ideas - and the people who discover them
The Opportunity
Are you a PhD graduate in Structural or Mechanical Engineering looking to push the boundaries of computational mechanics, fracture modelling, and experimental validation? Join us for a targeted 12-month research initiative bridging high-performance computing (HPC) , advanced ABAQUS finite-element modelling, and hands-on laboratory testing.
Reporting to a Professor in Structural Engineering, you will lead the development and validation of multi-scale fracture mechanics models. In this role, you will bridge numerical simulation with physical experiment, developing automated Python workflows, running parametric studies on HPC clusters, and validating predictions against experimental results.
What You’ll Do
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Advanced FEA and Automation: Build, verify, and validate multi-scale models using ABAQUS linked with user-defined material/element subroutines, writing Python scripts for simulation automation, data processing, and workflow optimisation.
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Develop Machine Learning (ML) models: Train ML models based on published literature, experimental data, and FEA results to support optimization of advanced materials.
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Bridge Theory and Experiment: Support mechanical testing (setup, instrumentation, and data acquisition) to validate numerical predictions and contribute to machine learning and optimisation activities.
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Mentorship and Collaboration: Provide technical guidance and scripting support to PhD students, co-author journal manuscripts, and contribute to research funding applications.
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Deliver High-Impact Outcomes: Drive the project toward key deliverables, including a reusable modelling workflow, a structured simulation dataset, and top-tier journal submissions.
What You Will Bring
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Qualification: A PhD in Structural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
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Core FEA and ML Skills: Proven expertise in finite-element modelling with ABAQUS, grounded in solid and fracture mechanics (e.g. multi-scale modelling of composite laminates or concrete, phase-field fracture modelling) and experience with ML models.
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Programming Capabilities: Strong Python skills for automation, data analysis, and workflow tool development, including experience with ML and optimisation
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Research Drive: Excellent communication skills, a collegiate mindset, and a strong track record of producing clear reports and publications.
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Experimental Testing: Experience with experimental testing using mechanical loading machines.
About Monash University
At Monash, work feels different. There’s a sense of belonging, from contributing to something ground breaking – a place where great things happen.
We value difference and diversity. That’s why we champion an inclusive and respectful workplace culture where everyone is supported to succeed.
Some 20,000 staff work for Monash around the world. We have 95,000 students, four Australian campuses, and campuses in Malaysia and Indonesia. We also have a major presence in India and China, and a significant centre and research foundation in Italy.
In our short history, we have skyrocketed through global university rankings and established ourselves consistently among the world's best tertiary institutions. We rank in the world’s top-50 universities in rankings including the QS World University Rankings 2026.
Together with our commitment to academic freedom, you will have access to quality research facilities, infrastructure, world-class teaching spaces, and international collaboration opportunities.
Learn more about Monash.
Today, we have the momentum to create the future we need for generations to come. Accelerate your change here.
Monash supports flexible and hybrid working arrangements. We have a range of policies in place enabling staff to combine work and personal commitments. This includes supporting parents.
To Apply
For instructions on how to apply, please refer to
'How to apply for Monash Jobs'. Your application must address the Key Selection Criteria.
Diversity is one of our greatest strengths at Monash. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, people with disabilities, neurodivergent people, and people of all genders, sexualities, and age groups.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment process at Monash. If you need any reasonable adjustments, please contact us at hr-recruitment@monash.edu in an email titled 'Reasonable Adjustments Request' for a confidential discussion.
Your employment is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of all pre-employment and/or background checks required for the role, as determined by the University.
Enquiries: Dr. Fatemeh Azhari, Senior Lecturer in Structural Engineering, fatemeh.azhari@monash.edu
Position Description: Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Applications Close: Tuesday 27th October 2026, 11:55pm AEDT
Please submit your application as soon as possible for this fabulous opportunity to join Monash University. Interviews will be held as strong applicants are identified. Applications will close when the role has been filled.
Supporting a diverse workforce
