At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful research and inspire the next generation of engineers in mechanics and structural design.
- Company: Join UNSW, a world-leading institution in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, 17% superannuation, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong industry partnerships and commitment to sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in engineering education and research with cutting-edge facilities.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and proven research and teaching experience.
The predicted salary is between 185917 - 204218 £ per year.
Salary, Level D – AUD $185,917 to $204,218 per annum + 17% superannuation
Full time
2-Year Convertible Tenure Track or continuing
Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia
The Opportunity
Join the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering at UNSW as an Associate Professor in a Teaching and Research role. As an Associate Professor, you will be a leader at one of Australia's premier engineering schools, where you'll drive impactful research in mechanics and the design of structures while shaping the next generation of engineers. With established strengths in solid mechanics, multiscale computational modelling, optimisation, and digital twin simulation, UNSW offers an exceptional environment for ambitious academics who want to contribute to world‐class innovation, inspire student learning, and help advance the future of safe, high‐performance, and sustainable structural design.
We are seeking a candidate with a proven research background and strong educational experience in Mechanics and Design of Structures, with a focus on computational mechanics, structural optimisation, and advanced manufacturing applications. To be suitable for this role, you will have a proven research and publication record, as well as a teaching background in engineering mechanics, solid mechanics, structural design, and related computational or experimental methods.
This is an opportunity to join a global leader in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, with cutting‐edge facilities, world‐class faculty, and an innovative research environment. With strong industry partnerships and a commitment to sustainability, UNSW provides unparalleled opportunities for career growth, collaboration, and impact.
This role reports to the Head of School and has no direct reports.
About UNSW
UNSW is a world‐leading institution recognised for its scale, prestige, and impact. With strong industry engagement and partnerships across sectors, UNSW provides a unique environment where academic expertise translates into real‐world outcomes. The university is home to cutting‐edge research that drives innovation and societal progress, while its excellence in teaching ensures students are prepared to lead in their fields. For academics, UNSW offers an outstanding platform to flourish — combining world‐class facilities, collaborative networks, and a culture of innovation that supports both career growth and meaningful contributions to the wider community.
The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering is internationally recognised for its excellence in research and teaching. Our mission is to nurture students to become industry leaders who will generate societal, economic, and environmental benefits. The School is one of the largest and most prestigious schools in Australia for thriving research programs and contribution to education excellence in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, Robotics and Mechatronic Engineering. Our Schools QS ranking for 2025 is #46 globally and the highest in Australia.
Skills & Experience
- PhD in an area of direct relevance, including but not limited to Mechanical, Aerospace, Robotics, Advanced Manufacturing, and Nuclear Engineering
- Significant portfolio of scientific research in engineering mechanics, mechanics of solids, dynamics, design for manufacturing, and advanced manufacturing
- Significant experience and achievements in translating research results into practical outcomes
- Demonstrated teaching expertise, experience in pedagogical development, and capacity for development of alternative delivery models for teaching, including online and blended delivery
- Excellent level of communication skills and ability to network effectively and interact with a diverse range of students and staff
- Demonstrated experience of supervising higher degree research students
- Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships
- Willingness to undertake any compliance and supervisor training as required
- Ability and capacity to implement required UNSW health and safety policies and procedures
- An understanding of and commitment to UNSW's aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines
- Knowledge of health & safety (psychosocial and physical) responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.
Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.
To Apply
If you are an established academic seeking to further your career in a senior role that provides the opportunity to lead significant research initiatives, deliver high‐quality teaching, and contribute to the strategic direction of the School, we encourage you to click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter, and systematic responses to the Skills and Experience.
If you're excited about this role and think you have what it takes, but your experience doesn't align 100%, we still want to hear from you and would encourage you to apply.
If You Have Had Any Interruption In Your Career, You Are Encouraged To Include a ROPE Statement As Part Of Your Application. For Information On ROPE Please Check https://www.arc.gov.au/about-arc/program-policies/research-opportunity-and-performance-evidence-rope-statement
Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.
Contact
For role-specific inquiries, please contact Prof Chun Wang (Head of School) E: chun.h.wang@unsw.edu.au
For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Consultant) E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: 11:50 pm (Sydney time) on Wednesday 22 April 2026
Pre-Employment Checks
- National and International Criminal history checks
- Entitlement to work and ID checks
- Working With Children Checks
- Completion of a Gender-Based Violence Prevention Declaration
- Verification of relevant qualifications
- Verification of relevant professional membership
- Employment history and reference checks
- Financial responsibility assessments/checks.
- Medical Checks and Assessments.
- Compliance with the necessary combination of these checks is a condition of employment at UNSW.
UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
Associate Professor - Mechanics & Design of Structure in Bath employer: UNSW
UNSW is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration among its faculty. As an Associate Professor in the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, you will benefit from cutting-edge facilities and strong industry partnerships, while also having ample opportunities for professional growth and impactful research. Located in Kensington, Sydney, UNSW provides a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all employees can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the future of engineering education and research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Professor - Mechanics & Design of Structure in Bath
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like UNSW.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like UNSW love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of UNSW and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Professor - Mechanics & Design of Structure in Bath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for UNSW and the Associate Professor - Mechanics & Design of Structure role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at UNSW
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at UNSW.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at UNSW.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with UNSW, making you a more appealing candidate.
