At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a research team exploring free-space optical communication in maritime environments.
- Company: Be part of ICRAR, a leading institution in radio astronomy and innovative research.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous parental leave, annual leave options, and discounts on education and health insurance.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to fostering a safe environment for all.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while collaborating with industry and government partners.
- Qualifications: Must have experience in software development, particularly with Python or MATLAB.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Research Associate – Free Space Optical Communications
Location: Crawley
Benefits:
- 26 weeks paid parental leave after one year and 36 weeks after five years continuous service, regardless of gender.
- 4 weeks annual leave with the option to purchase more.
- 13 weeks long service leave after seven/ten years.
- Salary packaging options.
- 17% superannuation, with the option to reduce to the minimum super guarantee.
- Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses.
- Discounted health insurance, and convenient on-campus childcare options.
- Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.
About the area:
The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) is a joint venture between Curtin University and The University of Western Australia (UWA), established in 2009 and funded through 2030 with $65 million from the WA State Government. ICRAR is a leading institution in radio astronomy and a key Australian contributor to the global SKA project. The Astrophotonics Group within ICRAR develops advanced photonic systems for radio and optical astronomy, with a focus on long-distance transfer of stabilised frequency and timing signals via optical fibre and free-space laser links.
About the opportunity:
Contribute to a small research team conducting research on free-space optical communication, specifically optimised for operations within maritime environments. Work within a UWA small team and contribute to collaborations with project partner organisations including industry, government, and defence. Conduct technical work including laboratory experiments and hardware development, software and algorithm development, optical communications development, and assist with maritime and airborne field trials.
About you:
- Completed 4 years of tertiary study or equivalent qualifications and experience with software, programming, simulation, and algorithm development (Python or MATLAB).
- Capability to conduct research and development on free-space optical communication, specifically optimised for operations within maritime environments.
- Ability to work independently, show initiative, problem solve and work productively as part of a team.
- Strong documentation and version control practices (e.g., Git).
Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.
Hiring restrictions:
This position is only open to applicants with Australian citizenship/PR, or citizenship of NATO/five eyes countries and with relevant rights to work in Australia.
Potential contract extension:
While not guaranteed, fixed-term contracts may be extended beyond the contract end date subject to funding and at the school’s sole discretion, the school will advise you sufficiently ahead of time should this be the case.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity:
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability. We require any reasonable adjustments to be appropriately requested at the time of application.
Date Information:
Applications close: 01 Jun 2026 W. Australia Standard Time
Research Associate - Free Space Optical Communications in Crawley employer: UWA
As a Research Associate at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) in Crawley, you will be part of a pioneering team dedicated to advancing free-space optical communications in maritime environments. The company offers an inclusive work culture with excellent benefits such as generous parental leave, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to diversity, making it an ideal employer for those seeking meaningful contributions to cutting-edge research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Free Space Optical Communications in Crawley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of free-space optical communications, especially those connected to ICRAR or UWA. Attend relevant events or webinars and don’t be shy about introducing yourself – you never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with Python or MATLAB, create a portfolio showcasing your projects. This can really set you apart when you’re chatting with potential employers or during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the latest trends in free-space optical communication and think about how your skills can contribute to maritime environments. Practice common interview questions and be ready to discuss your problem-solving approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, and it shows you’re serious about joining our team. Plus, keep an eye on our careers page for any new opportunities that pop up!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Free Space Optical Communications in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Associate role. Highlight your experience with software, programming, and optical communications, especially in maritime environments. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Show Off Your Team Spirit:We love team players! In your application, share examples of how you've worked collaboratively in past projects. Mention any experiences where you’ve shown initiative or problem-solving skills, as these are key for our small research team.
Keep It Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is crucial. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless necessary. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read, so make sure your points come across clearly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures we receive all your details correctly and helps us keep track of your application. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at UWA
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of free-space optical communications and the specific challenges in maritime environments. Familiarise yourself with relevant software like Python or MATLAB, as well as any recent advancements in the field. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also passionate about the subject matter.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working within a small team and collaborating with various partners, be prepared to discuss your previous teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've contributed to group projects, solved problems together, and supported your colleagues. Highlighting your ability to work independently while also being a team player is key.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to laboratory experiments, hardware development, and algorithm design. Brush up on your problem-solving skills and be ready to walk through your thought process during the interview. Practising common technical scenarios can help you articulate your approach clearly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the current projects the team is working on, the tools they use for documentation and version control, or how they foster collaboration with industry and government partners. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
