Postdoctoral Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Fusion Reactor Engineering Design [...]

Postdoctoral Research Associate / Senior Research Associate – Fusion Reactor Engineering Design and SimulationsThe University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney is hiring a Postdoctoral Research Associate (Level A) or astore Senior Research Associate (Level B) to lead design development and simulations of engineering solutions for fusion energy reactor concepts. This role involves independent and collaborative research within a partnership between UNSW and the fusion energy company HB‐11 Energy, supporting the broader project to accelerate inertial fusion energy reactor concepts using advanced fuels.

Responsibilities

Integrate optimisation of fuel target development with the design of reactor chambers and auxiliary systems such as cooling, shielding, and laser optics.

Conduct life‐assessment studies of components under intense x‐ray, neutron, and charged‐particle flux.

Select materials for structural and functional reactor components.

Explore advanced and conventional cooling systems, energy extraction and conversion pathways, target delivery mechanisms, and radiation shielding options.

Generate outcomes that inform HB‐11 Energy\’s technology roadmap and support balance‐of‐plant modelling for economic viability.

Collaborate within Patrick Burr\’s research group and the HB‐11 Energy team located in Sydney.

Qualifications and Skills

A PhD in a related discipline or equivalent work experience.

Experience in at least two of: engineering design, thermodynamics calculations, heat transfer, fluid flow, radiation shielding, radiation damage, particle transport.

Computational skills to compose or modify comprehensive simulation open‐source codes.

Proficiency in data analysis and simulations of coupled nuclear engineering problems (e.g., molecular dynamics, CFD, activation decay codes, kinetic Monte Carlo, particle transport codes习近平, finite element or finite difference methods, peridynamics, phase‐field models, multi‐objective optimisation, CAD).

Ability to adapt quickly to changing project directions and acquire new techniques.

Strong interpersonal skills; teamwork, cross‐disciplinary collaboration, and the ability to build effective relationships.

Excellent written and verbal communication with diverse stakeholders and students.

Commitment to UNSW\’s values, goals, policies, and safety training.

Track record of high‐quality academic research, including peer‐reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Salary & Conditions

Level A – AUD 113,911 to 121,838 per annum + 17% superannuation.

Level B – AUD 127,947 to 150,830 per annum + 17% superannuation.

Full‐time; fixed‐term contract – 3 years.

Location: Kensington, Sydney, Australia.

About UNSWUNSW is a large, diverse organisation with a vibrant materials research community within the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and the UNSW Nuclear Innovation Centre. The School is internationally recognised for its excellence in research and teaching, ranking highly in global and national engineering assessments. The UNSW Nuclear Innovation Centre fosters cross‐disciplinary collaborations to advance Australia\’s nuclear science industry.

Application ProcessTo apply, submit a CV, cover letter, and responses to the skills and experience listed above via the UNSW Jobs portal. The application deadline is 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Thursday 12 February 2026. Candidates should systematically address the skills and experience in their application.

Pre‐Employment Checks

National and international criminal history checks.

Entitlement to work and ID verification.

Working With Children checks.

Gender‐Based Violence Prevention Declaration.

Verification of qualifications and professional memberships.

Employment history and reference checks.

Financial responsibility assessments.

Medical checks and assessments.

ContactFor role‐specific inquiries, contact A/Prof Patrick Burr (Group Leader) – E : p.burr@unsw.edu.au

For recruitment process questions, contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Partner) – E : eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au

EEO StatementUNSW 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 DB 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.

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