Research Associate - Physics in Manchester

One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities. Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion. Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best. This job is based in Australia. The School of Physics is one of the leading Physics schools in Australia. It offers a world class undergraduate physics degree, as well as a postgraduate PhD research program for over 50 students. 33 academic staff conduct theoretical and experimental research in quantum physics, astrophysics, fundamental physics, and condensed matter physics. UNSW is an international leader in quantum computing research and hosts the ARC Centre for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology.

The Research Associate is expected to contribute to a broad range of defined research projects in the field of Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR). The Research Associate will work in a highly collaborative research environment which will require developing and maintaining strong links within UNSW and with research groups across Australia and internationally. This role is based in the School of Physics within the Faculty of Science. The School has a strong teaching and research culture and the staff are conducting cutting edge research in a broad range of areas, and in particular condensed matter and quantum physics.

About The Role

• Salary: $113K - $121K plus 9.5% superannuation and annual leave loading
• Contract: Fixed Term – 3 years
• Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week)

Specific Responsibilities For This Role Include

• Contribute to the management of the research group, including assisting with setting the strategic direction, supervision of students, and development of collaborative relationships.
• Deliver research outcomes in the broad field of Electron Paramagnetic Resonance.
• Collaborate with other research groups by providing EPR expertise and capacity.
• Prepare oxygen-sensitive optoelectronic materials and devices.
• Perform electrical and optical measurements where required.
• Keep detailed laboratory notes describing all experiments undertaken.
• Contribute to and draft papers for publication reporting on original research.
• Undertake interstate and international travel for collaborative visits when required.
• Work to maintain a culture which supports high quality research.
• Ensure equipment and facilities are maintained.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others.

About The Successful Applicant

• A PhD (or soon to be awarded) in Physics or a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
• Demonstrated experience in:
• Spin physics and spin-based spectroscopy, in particular in experimental pulsed Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectroscopy.
• Characterisation of organic optoelectronic materials and devices.
• Fabrication of devices from oxygen sensitive materials, particularly in an inert environment.
• The development of experimental apparatus.
• Data analysis and scientific communication.
• Demonstrated capability to produce high quality research publications.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a research team and to contribute to the broader intellectual environment of the School of Physics.
• Experience with python or equivalent programming experience is desirable.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity; demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Applications close: June 3rd, 2026. UNSW aspires to be the exemplar Australian university and employer of choice for people from diverse backgrounds. UNSW aims to ensure equality in recruitment, development, retention and promotion of staff and that no-one is disadvantaged on the basis of their gender, cultural background, disability, sexual orientation or identity or Indigenous heritage. We encourage everyone who meets the selection criteria to apply. UNSW partners with Australia’s leading diversity organisations, networks, and campaigns. Please refer to UNSW’s diversity offerings for further information on our flexible work and leave options, and support for carers (childcare, parent rooms, parental leave).