Jobs and Careers

• Develop the coupled ACCESS-OM3-ISSM model and conduct technical testing, validation, and calibration
• Develop code and methodologies for effective model initialization, simulation execution, and output analysis
• Full-time, fixed-term position (2.5–3 years), based in Hobart

About the opportunity

We seek a motivated and talented computational scientist to join the ice sheet modelling team at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS),  University of Tasmania, working closely with Australia’s Climate Simulator (ACCESS-NRI) to couple the Ice-sheet and Sea-level System Model (ISSM) with the ACCESS-OM3 ocean model. The project offers a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of Earth system modelling, climate science and high-performance computing to address major challenges facing society. The role enables high-impact scientific publications encompassing ice-sheet dynamics, freshwater discharge impacts on ocean circulation, feedback mechanisms critical for sea-level rise projections and broader climate implications through collaboration with project partners. We encourage candidates with a strong computational modelling and programming background, with or without experience in Earth system modelling to apply. This role provides an excellent opportunity to contribute significantly to the advancement of ice sheet-ocean coupled modelling and sea-level rise projections, within a dynamic, collaborative research environment.

What you’ll do:

• Dynamically couple the ISSM ice-sheet model with the ACCESS-OM3 ocean and sea-ice model in collaboration with project partners.
• Refine and optimize the coupled ACCESS-OM3-ISSM model for improved computational performance and numerical reliability.
• Collaborate on the implementation of new basal melt parameterisations (including potential plume models), iceberg calving mechanisms, Antarctic fast-ice physics, biogeochemistry processes, and grounded iceberg dynamics.
• Contribute actively to the development and maintenance of ACCESS-ISSM Recipes, the ACCESS-ISSM Python API, and the ACCESS-ISSM Community Data Pool.
• Participate in the development of HPC-optimized ISSM configurations tailored for high-performance computational environments and engage with the ACCESS-NRI Ice Sheet Modelling Team by attending regular meetings, workshops, training sessions, and conferences, contributing proactively to ACCESS-NRI strategic objectives.

What we’re looking for:

• A PhD (or near completion) in glaciology, oceanography, computational modelling, climate sciences, software engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience with numerical modelling is required. Experience specifically involving ice sheet dynamics, ocean processes, coupled ocean-ice sheet modelling or broader coupled climate system components is desirable.
• Strong technical proficiency in software development and optimization for high-performance computing environments.
• Proficiency in Python, C++ and Fortran programming as well as experience with APIs for model pre- and post-processing.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write technical documentation and publish research outcomes in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level A or Level B. Level A  will have a total remuneration package of up to $125,877 comprising base salary within the range of $83,198 to $107,587 plus 17% superannuation. Level B will have a total remuneration package of up to $ 155,885 comprising base salary within the range of $ 114,766 to $ 133,235 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide the following supporting documentation:
  • Resume
  • Cover letter outlining your suitability and motivation for the role
  • Your responses to the success profile criteria from the Position Description below
• For further information about this position, please contact Chen Zhao, Senior Research Fellow in Ice Sheet Modelling, chen.zhao@utas.edu.au or 03 6226 7502
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 Position Description -501445 - Coupled Ice Sheet-Ocean Modeller- Level A.pdf

 Position Description -501445 - Coupled Ice Sheet-Ocean Modeller- Level B.pdf

Applications close Tuesday, 30 September 2025, 11.55pm

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.