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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to research and analyse waste and plastics economics.
- Company: UNSW's SDR Hub drives sustainable change through innovative research and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 17% superannuation, and extra leave during Christmas.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while developing your research skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD or relevant experience in waste, recycling, or circular economy required.
- Other info: Applications close on 20th August 2025; diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
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- Employment Type: Full – Time (35-hour week)
- Remuneration: Level A from $91,381 plus 17% Superannuation and Leave Loading
- Location: Kensington, NSW
This Job is based in Australia
- Duration: 6-month Fixed Term contract
- Employment Type: Full – Time (35-hour week)
- Remuneration: Level A from $91,381 plus 17% Superannuation and Leave Loading
- Location: Kensington, NSW
About Us
The SDR Hub, established by the UNSW Faculty of Law and Justice in 2022, aims to connect knowledge and people to make small steps towards big changes. It creates safe spaces for changemakers—from government, business, and wider society—to plan pragmatic action for a sustainable low-carbon future informed by knowledge and insights from across the world. The SDR Hub builds on diverse research, education, and knowledge exchange partnerships aligned with global sustainable development commitments to drive forward the implementation of innovative and transformative workstreams. Currently active in over 20 countries, with a particular focus on Australia and the Pacific, the SDR Hub works closely with decision-makers across government, international institutions, local communities, and the private and non-private sectors to create new approaches to decision-making as well as bold and intelligent reforms.
Details of the role
The Research Associate (Plastics Economist) is expected to contribute to the collaborative and innovative research efforts of the Hub and continue to develop their research translation expertise. The Research Associate (Plastics Economist) will work with the wider multi-disciplinary research team to deliver waste and plastic accounts and to disseminate knowledge on the waste, recycling, plastics and related circular economies.
The Research Associate will report to the Director of the SDR Hub and has no direct reports.
Skills And Experience
Skills and experience required for this position include:
- A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience in the analysis of, and development of policy for waste, recycling, circular economy and related areas.
- Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments. A working knowledge of waste accounting approaches, especially with relevance to SEEA or SNA is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality research and conduct independent research with supervision.
- Evidence of an ability to translate research into knowledge products for end users or decision-makers. Experience working within government or the public sector is highly desirable, as is experience with international negotiations, treaties or multi-country agreements.
- Project management, time management and organisational skills, including a demonstrated ability to interpret circumstances, meet competing deadlines and achieve objectives with minimal supervision.
- Demonstrated track record of publications and/or 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.
Please refer to the position description for full list of Skills and Experience.
Pre-employment checks required for this position
- Verification of qualifications
UNSW Benefits And Culture
- 17% Superannuation and leave loading
- Flexible working
- Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period
- Access to lifelong learning and career development
- Progressive HR practices
- More information on the great staff benefits and culture can be found here.
How To Apply
Please click on Apply now to apply online. Applications should not be sent to the contact listed below. Please provide a resume and a short cover letter addressing the skills and experience listed in the Position Description. A copy of the Position Description can be found on JOBS@UNSW.
Contact:
Anabel Wason, Talent Acquisition Consultant
a.wason@unsw.edu.au
Please apply through the application portal and not via the contact above.
Applications close: 11.30pm on Wednesday 20th August 2025 (Sydney time)
UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. 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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Research Associate (Plastics Economist) employer: UNSW
Contact Detail:
UNSW Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (Plastics Economist)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and developments in waste management and circular economies. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in your field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the sustainability and waste management sectors. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about current challenges and innovations in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the role. Be ready to explain how your work has contributed to policy development or practical applications in waste and recycling.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to collaborate across disciplines by highlighting any past projects where you worked with diverse teams. This is crucial for a role that involves multi-disciplinary research efforts.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (Plastics Economist)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the specific skills and experiences required for the Research Associate (Plastics Economist) position. Tailor your application to highlight how your background aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a short cover letter that directly addresses the skills and experience listed in the position description. Use specific examples from your past work or research to demonstrate your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any relevant work experience, particularly in waste management, recycling, or circular economy projects. Include details about your PhD and any publications or presentations that showcase your expertise.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you apply through the specified application portal and not via email. Double-check that you have included all required documents, such as your resume and cover letter, before submitting your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at UNSW
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
As a Research Associate, your ability to conduct high-quality research is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects, methodologies used, and how you translated findings into actionable insights for stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Waste Economics
Familiarise yourself with current trends and policies in waste management, recycling, and circular economies. Highlight any relevant experience or knowledge you have regarding waste accounting approaches, especially SEEA or SNA.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
The role requires working within a multi-disciplinary team. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past roles, focusing on your interpersonal skills and ability to build effective relationships.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and project management skills. Think of specific instances where you had to meet competing deadlines or manage projects with minimal supervision, and be ready to discuss these experiences.
