Research Associate

Overview

Join to apply for the Research Associate - Senior Research Associate - Climate role at UNSW.

The Research Associate / Senior Research Associate (Level A/B) will lead the development of an artificial intelligence–based foundation model toolbox that uses a wide range of historical, global and regional weather and climate data. The toolbox will be tested initially on climate risks to agriculture across the Asia-Pacific region, with opportunities to explore other climate-related impacts.

The successful applicant will join a team including Professors Andy Pitman and Scott Sisson, along with Dr Anna Ukkola, Elizabeth Vogel, Sanaa Hobeichi and Doug Richardson. This role is located in Sydney, Australia.

About The Role

• Level A – ($113k - $121k) per year, Level B – ($127k - $150k) per year, plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 3 years
• Full-time (35 hours per week)

Responsibilities
LEVEL A

• Contribute to the technical development of an artificial intelligence–based foundation model toolbox, including data wrangling, code development, evaluation and application.
• Engage in collaborative research with the existing team, leading key components at an internationally competitive level.
• Lead and contribute to significant international publications.
• Establish a personal research portfolio within project parameters; support is provided to develop independent proposals under guidance of senior colleagues.
• Support PhD students working on the project, under mentorship.
• Be willing to travel to Canberra to contribute to an annual workshop.
• Align with the Code of Conduct and Values and cooperate with all health and safety policies.

LEVEL B

• Lead the technical development of the toolbox, including data wrangling, code development, evaluation and application (in addition to Level A duties).
• Co-lead the intellectual evolution of the Foundation Model with international links.
• Mentor PhD students working on the project, supported by senior colleagues.

About The Successful Applicant / Selection Criteria

• A PhD in a related discipline (e.g., Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science). Weather or climate science background is acceptable if technical skills are strong.
• Advanced Python or C++ skills with experience in developing and fine-tuning foundation models, HPC and multi-GPU programming.
• Knowledge of state-of-the-art AI models/architectures; experience with collaborative coding and code sharing (e.g., GitHub).
• Strong commitment to staying up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Proven research track record with high-quality and high-impact outcomes and potential for leadership.
• High-level communication skills and ability to network with diverse students and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills; understanding of UNSW aims, objectives and values.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and willingness to undertake relevant training.

Requirements

• Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand Special Category Visa holder is required to apply.

Contact

• Andy Pitman
• E: a.pitman@unsw.edu.au

Applications

Please apply online. Applications sent to the contact listed will not be accepted.

Find Out More

Find out more about Working At UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au.

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability and flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

---