The Opportunity
The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) has an opportunity for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join a leading research team. This role will focus on the design, synthesis and characterisation of novel functional materials for perovskite photovoltaic applications, contributing to the development of high-performance devices and next-generation photovoltaic technologies. Working within a collaborative research environment, you will help advance innovative approaches to materials development, device fabrication and characterisation.
This position will provide you with the opportunity to develop your scholarly research and professional activities. You will contribute to the dissemination of research outcomes through appropriate channels and outlets, participate in conferences and workshops, and assist with the supervision of research students.
This role reports to Scientia Professor Xiaojing Hao and has no direct reports.
- Salary, Level A - AUD $118,467 to $126,711 per annum + 17% superannuation
- Full time
- Fixed-term contract – 1 year (with the possibility of extension for another 4 years)
- Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia
About UNSW
UNSW is a world‑leading institution recognised for its scale, prestige, and impact. With strong industry engagement and partnerships across sectors, UNSW provides a unique environment where academic expertise translates into real‑world outcomes. The university is home to cutting‑edge research that drives innovation and societal progress, while its excellence in teaching ensures students are prepared to lead in their fields. For academics, UNSW offers an outstanding platform to flourish — combining world‑class facilities, collaborative networks, and a culture of innovation that supports both career growth and meaningful contributions to the wider community.
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. SPREE’s 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: https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/photovoltaic-and-renewable-energy-engineering
Skills & Experience:
- A PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrated expertise in the synthesis, development and characterisation of functional materials, with experience in photovoltaic device fabrication and evaluation highly desirable.
- 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.
- An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
- Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.
Additional details about the specific responsibilities for these positions can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.
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.
Contact:
For role-specific inquiries, please contact Prof Xiaojing Hao
E: xj.hao@unsw.edu.au
For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Allyssar Hamoud (Talent Acquisition Associate)
E: a.hamoud@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Monday 24th August 2026
As part of our recruitment process candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening, which may include reference checks, qualification verification, right-to-work verification, and criminal history screening where relevant to the role.
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.
