The Opportunity
The UNSW Water Research Centre (WRC) has an opportunity for a Research Associate to contribute to research across wastewater management, waste utilisation, hydrogen energy, electrochemistry and materials science. In this role, you will undertake research independently and as part of a collaborative team, contributing to projects focused on developing sustainable solutions across environmental and energy applications. You will apply appropriate research methods to investigate and evaluate new approaches in areas such as resource recovery, waste valorisation, electrochemical systems and advanced materials, while contributing to high-quality research outcomes and the broader development of research activities within the Centre.
This position will provide you with the opportunity to further develop your research expertise while contributing to high-quality research outcomes. You will work independently and collaboratively, contribute to scholarly publications and research activities, engage with relevant stakeholders and research partners, participate in conferences and workshops, and assist with the supervision of research students where required.
This role reports to Professor Bruce and has no direct reports.
- Salary, Level A: AUD $118,467 to $126,711 per annum + 17% superannuation
- Employment type: Full time
- Appointment type: Fixed-term contract – 12-months
- Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia
About UNSW
At UNSW, research is driven by a commitment to creating meaningful impact. Our diverse and talented research community works across disciplines to tackle real-world challenges and advance knowledge. If you want to develop your research career, collaborate with leading researchers and contribute to research that makes a difference, you’re in the right place.
The UNSW Water Research Centre (WRC), within the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, undertakes multidisciplinary research in water and environmental engineering. The Centre works closely with industry, government and research partners to develop innovative solutions to water and environmental challenges. For further information, please go to UNSW Water Research Centre.
Skills & Experience
- A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
- 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 Professor Bruce Ni
E: bingjie.ni1@unsw.edu.au
For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Partner)
E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday, 11 October 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.
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