Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Remuneration range $119,401 to $141,128 pa
- Full-time fixed-term appointment until 18 December 2026
- Toowoomba campus

As part of the Australian Government’s $362 million Trailblazer Universities Program, the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) has recently been named one of Australia’s Trailblazer universities to accelerate growth in space manufacturing and lead a new research hub of national priority.

In a giant step for the Australian space sector, the new Innovative Launch, Automation, Novel Materials, Communications and Hypersonics (iLAuNCH) program, led by UniSQ in partnership with the Australian National University and the University of South Australia, will ensure Australian space expertise grows well into the future, providing new jobs and boosting the economy.

As a member of our Institute for Advanced Engineering and Space Sciences, you will work alongside a team of highly skilled researchers who work closely with national and international aerospace companies to deliver cutting-edge technologies, industry solutions and knowledge at the forefront of discovery.

**Who you are**

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow with a strong passion for science and technology, a desire to learn and grow, and a commitment to excellence. You should have a strong technical background in the field of aerospace engineering, an enthusiasm for experiments, and a knowledge of hypersonics and rocketry principles., You will play a critical role in the design and development of fundamental experiments to be flown on sounding rockets. The ability to conduct independent research, design and execute experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions is critical for success in this role.

You will be able to work collaboratively with a diverse group of stakeholders, including other researchers, engineers, technicians, HDR students and external partners. The ability to adapt to changing priorities, work effectively under pressure, and manage multiple projects simultaneously is important in this role

**What you'll do**

The role is part of the broader UniSQ led iLAuNCH program with the aim to build Australia’s sovereign space manufacturing capability in partnership with ANU, UniSA and 20+ industry partners.

In this role, you will be responsible for participating in and conducting research activities, as well as service activities that contribute to UniSQ led iLAuNCH program and achieve the project milestones and deliverables as specified in the project agreement.

As a Research fellow, you will focus on developing research profile and translation of technologies in collaboration with industry partners. The role will actively supervise honours and postgraduate student projects, whilst carrying out activities to maintain and develop academic and professional activities relevant to discipline.

**What will help you succeed**

Your initiative and excellent communication skill, combined with your ability to work independently and collaboratively with fellow researchers and external partners, will be vital to your success. Additionally, you will have:

- It is essential you hold a doctoral qualification or equivalent accreditation and standing in the relevant discipline of mechanical or aerospace engineering.
- Demonstrated professional experience and/or research expertise in a relevant discipline mechanical or aerospace engineering.
- High level oral and written communication and interpersonal skills, relating well to people at all levels using diplomacy, tact, and sound judgement, with an ability to build constructive and effective relationships.

The University offers a range of different ways of working and connecting across our physical and virtual spaces to meet the needs of our students, partners and community. We value diversity and strive to foster an inclusive environment that is underpinned by our values and champions, embraces and respects differences.

**Reference** **Number**: 0471_12/22

**Location**:Toowoomba Campus

**Term**: Full-time fixed-term appointment till 18 December 2026 (36 hrs/week)

**Salary**: Total remuneration range $119,401 to $141,128 pa (includes salary range of $100,888 to $119,246 pa, employer super contributions of 17% and annual leave loading)

**Closes**: 02 June 2023

At UniSQ we are united by our core values of Respect, Integrity and Excellence, which guide our daily actions and decision-making.

**If you know that this role is right for you, please submit your current resume together with a two-page (maximum) statement, outlining your skills and experience relative to ‘Who we’re looking for’ in the position description.