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, salary packaging, 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: Tertiary qualifications in software development, with skills in Python or MATLAB.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Research Associate – Free Space Optical Communications
Job no: 523447
Work type: Full Time
Location: Crawley
Categories: Science
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 employer: UWA
As a Research Associate at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) in Crawley, you will join a dynamic team dedicated to advancing free-space optical communications in maritime environments. With a strong commitment to employee growth, ICRAR offers generous benefits including extensive parental leave, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion. Enjoy the unique advantage of working at a leading institution in radio astronomy, contributing to groundbreaking research while benefiting from a collaborative environment with industry and government partners.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Free Space Optical Communications
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your skills. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable talking about your experience and how it relates to free-space optical communications.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the field! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know why you're excited about research in free-space optical communications and how you can contribute to their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team at ICRAR.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Free Space Optical Communications
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, mention any collaborative projects you've worked on. Share examples of how you’ve contributed to a team and solved problems together. It’s all about showing us you can work well with others while also being independent.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point, so make every word count!
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 process your application smoothly. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at UWA
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on free-space optical communications and its applications, especially in maritime environments. Familiarise yourself with the latest research and developments in the field, as well as the specific projects the team is working on. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with software, programming, and algorithm development, particularly in Python or MATLAB. Prepare examples of past projects where you've successfully applied these skills, and be ready to explain your problem-solving approach during the interview.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since this role involves collaboration with various partners, highlight your ability to work independently and as part of a team. Share experiences where you've contributed to group projects or worked alongside others to achieve a common goal, showcasing your initiative and teamwork skills.
✨Documentation Matters
Emphasise your strong documentation and version control practices, like using Git. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure your work is well-documented and easily accessible for others, as this is crucial in research environments. It shows that you value clarity and collaboration.
