Research Assistant

Full-time, fixed term two (2) year appointment
- $101,369 - $108,683 (ALA6-ALA8) per annum plus 17% superannuation
- Bentley based (Perth, Western Australia)

**Job Reference**:741049**

**Your new role**

Are you looking to join a multi-disciplinary team that includes researchers from Physics, Chemistry and Mechanical Engineering?

We have an exciting opportunity for two Research Assistants to join Curtin University, supporting the _Removing Cobalt from Hard Metal Cutting Tools_ project.

Each position will carry out and contribute to the development of the computational research programme that is the cornerstone of the Trailblazer project, which is focussed on the understanding of the mechanical properties of hard metals (mainly WC-Co) under realistic conditions **and designing computational workflows generally applicable for the development of hard metals, a compound consisting of a hard and a soft phase.**

The Research Assistant situated within the School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences (EECMS) will be responsible for atomistic molecular dynamics stimulations while the Research Assistant within the School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering (CME) will be responsible for carrying out finite element analysis (FEA) calculations.

Both will work synergistically on the Trailblazer project and therefore the ability to work within a team is pivotal. You will be working under the supervision of researchers A/Prof Nigel Marks, Prof Paolo Raiteri, and A/Prof Ian Davies, and in collaboration with our industry partner.

**About us**
We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket.

Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. We encourage a progressive and diverse workplace and are committed to looking after our employees by promoting health and wellbeing, work flexibility, and personal development opportunities.
- **Global Excellence**: Curtin University proudly stands among the top one percent of global universities according to the ARWU 2024 rankings.
- **Rewards Beyond Salary**: Enjoy the perks of a generous superannuation contribution (17%) with cash out options*, customisable salary packaging benefits through Paywise and Hotel, as well as Health Insurance discounts.
- **Adaptable Work Environment**: Embrace flexibility with a role based at our Bentley campus, with the option to work remotely from home or one of our other campus locations such as Midland or St George’s terrace for a change of scenery. _*Role dependant and to be discussed with Hiring Manager._
- **Time Well-Spent**: Experience the added value of 17.5% Leave Loading, with the option to be paid out or taken as additional leave. Benefit from Parental Leave (26 weeks for the primary caregiver), Annual Leave (20 days), Personal Leave (14 days), Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Leave (5 days)*, Study Leave, Community Service Leave, and access to Long Service Leave after 10 years of continuous service for Academic Staff.
- **Plus** 18% more observed days off -enjoy 12 Public Holidays each year and 2 extra University Days over the Christmas/New Year Period.
- **Recognition for Prior Service**: Curtin recognises prior service for long service leave purposes. New Curtin employees may be* eligible if they have worked for an Australian University, public service or other recognised institution.

**Join us**

**Selection Criteria**:
**Research Assistant in EECMS**
- PhD in a relevant Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or a related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience in atomistic simulations, particularly of large-scale system.
- Demonstrated competency in a range of qualitative and quantitative research tasks.
- Strong computational and scripting skills (Python, UNIX, etc.).

**Research Assistant in CME**
- Hold a PhD in engineering or a related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience in FEA packages (preferably open-source packages).
- Strong computational skills (preferably Python) relevant to FEA analysis.

**Both positions**
- Emerging research track record/potential to conduct quality research and contribute productively to research teams under supervision.
- Demonstrated high level organisational skills.
- Demonstrated high level communication and interpersonal skills with a commitment to the development of a collegial and supportive working environment and the ability to interact with students and staff with cross cultural sensitivity.
- Demonstrated writing skills in the form of publications and reports independently

**Applications close: Mond