At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in cybersecurity and AI security while shaping education strategies.
- Company: Join UNSW, a world-leading institution in Computer Science with cutting-edge facilities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 17% superannuation, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong industry partnerships and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity and AI while mentoring the next generation of researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in a related field and proven track record in high-impact research.
Associate Professor in Cybersecurity – Full Time, based in Sydney, NSW, Australia. Salary, Level D – AUD $185,917 to $204,218 per annum + 17% superannuation. Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia. 2-Year Convertible Tenure Track or continuing appointment.
The Opportunity
Join the School of Computer Science and Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering at UNSW as an Associate Professor in a Teaching and Research role. You will be a senior academic leader contributing to and shaping the strategic direction of research and education in cybersecurity and AI security. You will drive high-impact research with national and international visibility across areas such as security and privacy of AI systems, adversarial machine learning, secure AI deployment, and AI safety, while advancing the School’s research profile, industry engagement, and educational excellence.
With established strengths in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and distributed systems, UNSW offers an environment for ambitious academics ready to lead innovative programs, mentor researchers, and contribute to institutional strategy, governance, and interdisciplinary collaboration. You will help advance the future of secure, trustworthy, and privacy-preserving intelligent systems.
This is an opportunity to join a global leader in Computer Science with cutting-edge facilities, world-class faculty, and an innovative research environment. With strong industry partnerships and a commitment to sustainability, UNSW provides opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and impact.
About You
You are an established academic with a strong and sustained track record of high-impact research in cybersecurity and AI security, with a growing national or international reputation. You bring expertise in areas such as AI security and privacy, adversarial machine learning, model and data privacy, LLM and agent security, and AI safety, and demonstrate the ability to translate research into real-world impact.
With a proven ability to secure competitive research funding, lead research initiatives, and supervise higher degree research students to successful completion, you are an engaging and effective educator with experience in delivering high-quality teaching and contributing to curriculum development. As a senior academic, you will demonstrate leadership within your discipline, contribute to strategic initiatives, academic governance, or program development. You are collaborative, forward-thinking, and motivated to build partnerships across academia and industry.
About UNSW
UNSW is a world-leading institution with scale, prestige, and impact. The university offers an environment where academic expertise translates into real-world outcomes, supported by cutting-edge research and teaching excellence. The School of Computer Science and Engineering is among the largest and most prestigious schools of computing in Australia, offering undergraduate programmes in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, and Bioinformatics, with research and teaching staff who are world leading.
Skills & Experience
- A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
- Commitment to staying current with discipline knowledge and developments.
- Experience in teaching and learning design, development and delivery of courses and programs at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level.
- Experience implementing educational technologies and online delivery methods.
- Evidence of teaching effectiveness and passion for educational excellence and fostering this in others.
- Experience with industry or work-integrated learning.
- Professional development of teaching practice with ability to advance and lead an inclusive culture of excellence in learning and teaching.
- Experience initiating curriculum development and improvement.
- Strong interpersonal and organisational skills.
- Ability to support and inspire students from diverse backgrounds and support equity diversity and inclusion initiatives.
- Significant track record in research leadership with high-quality, high international impact and ongoing pursuit of research excellence.
- Excellent record of recruiting and supervising high-calibre students.
- Leadership in building engagement and partnerships with the profession and industry.
- Understanding of UNSW’s aims, objectives and values, policies and guidelines.
- Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to 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 advance your career in a senior role that provides leadership of significant research initiatives, delivers high-quality teaching, and contributes to the School’s strategic direction, please click the Apply Now button and submit your CV, cover letter, and responses addressing the Skills and Experience criteria.
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:
Eugene Aves - Talent Acquisition Partner
E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: 11:50 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday, 26 July 2026
Pre-Employment Checks
Aligned with UNSW’s focus on safety, ethical conduct, and integrity, preferred candidates may be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role. Checks may include some of the following:
- National and International Criminal history checks
- Entitlement to work and ID checks
- Working With Children Checks
- 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 these checks is a condition of employment.
UNSW supports equity and inclusion and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
Position Description
Advertised: 26 May 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 26 Jul 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Associate Professor in Cybersecurity in Bristol employer: UNSW
UNSW is an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a significant impact in the field of cybersecurity and AI security. With a commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research facilities, and strong industry partnerships, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and professional growth. Located in vibrant Kensington, Sydney, UNSW offers a supportive environment where ambitious academics can thrive, mentor future leaders, and contribute to meaningful advancements in technology and education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Professor in Cybersecurity in Bristol
✨Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including UNSW, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
✨Tailor Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!
✨Apply Directly Through UNSW
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at UNSW. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Professor in Cybersecurity in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at UNSW insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to UNSW that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at UNSW
✨Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interviewers at UNSW to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
✨Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at UNSW.
✨Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
