Research Fellow in Supernova Explosions & Radiative Transfer Modelling

Job No.: 691454

Location: Clayton campus

Employment Type: Full-time 

Duration: 2-year fixed-term appointment

Remuneration: $83,280 - $113,025 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

Join the ARC Discovery Project “Ascertaining the explosion mechanism of stripped‑envelope supernovae” led by Associate Professor Bernhard Mueller in the School of Physics & Astronomy. 

The Research Fellow will conduct research related to the light curves and spectropolarimetry of Type Ib/c supernovae using radiative transfer models. You will also be expected to connect to the broader activities of the Monash Stellar Explosions group and its international collaborators in supernova theory, stellar evolution, nucleosynthesis, and multi-messenger astronomy.

The successful candidate will have:

• Expertise in astrophysical radiative transfer and computational fluid dynamics

• Demonstrated expertise in the theory and phenomenology of supernova explosions

• Experience in comparing model predictions of observed transient data

• Experience in software development with larger scientific codes; in particular, expertise in Fortran, C, Python, and/or build systems are of advantage

As an example of a recent research highlight in the group, a study led by Associate Professor Bernhard Müller and Professor Alexander Heger published in Physical Review Letters has provided new insights into the minimum mass of neutron stars formed during supernova explosions. For more information, please visit our website: www.monash.edu/science/news-events/news/2025/breakthrough-simulations-shed-light-on-the-lightest-neutron-star-mystery 

This is an exceptional opportunity for an emerging researcher to make high‑impact contributions to one of astrophysics’ most compelling open questions.

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, and welcome and celebrate everyone's contributions, lived experience and expertise. 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: Associate Professor Bernhard Mueller, School of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science, bernhard.mueller@monash.edu 

Position Description: Research Fellow

Applications Close: Monday 6 April 2026, 11:55pm AEST