Overview
Join to apply for the Research Associate - Senior Research Associate - Climate role at UNSW
The Research Associate / Senior Research Associate (Level A/B) position is available to take a leading role in developing an artificial intelligence-based foundation model toolbox that utilizes a wide range of historical, global and regional weather and climate data. A general purpose toolbox, initially tested on climate risks to agriculture across the Asia-Pacific region will be developed with opportunities to explore other types of impacts associated with climate change.
Role location
THIS ROLE IS LOCATED IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA.
Responsibilities
* Level A – contribute to the technical development of an artificial intelligence-based foundation model toolbox, including data wrangling, code development, evaluation and application.
* Engage in collaborative research with the existing team, leading key components at an internationally competitive level.
* Lead and contribute to significant international publications.
* Establish a personal research portfolio within project constraints; support to develop independent research proposals under guidance of senior colleagues.
* Support PhD students working on the project, under mentorship of senior colleagues.
* Be willing to travel to contribute to an annual workshop.
* Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values; cooperate with health and safety policies.
* Level B – in addition to Level A responsibilities: lead the technical development of the foundation model toolbox, establish strong international links, and mentor PhD students.
Salary and terms
* Level A – ($113k - $121k) per year; Level B – ($127k - $150k) per year plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
* Fixed Term – 3 years
* Full-time (35 hours per week)
About The Successful Applicant
Level A
* A PhD in a related discipline (e.g., Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science). Weather or climate science background acceptable if technical skills are strong.
* Key skills include advanced Python or C++ with experience in developing and fine-tuning foundation models, HPC systems and multi-GPU programming.
* Knowledge of state-of-the-art AI models and architectures; track record of collaborative coding (e.g., GitHub).
* Commitment to ongoing discipline knowledge and developments; high-quality and impactful research with leadership potential.
* Strong communication and networking skills with diverse students and staff; capacity to work collaboratively across disciplines.
* Understanding of UNSW aims, objectives and values; knowledge of health and safety responsibilities.
Level B
* Several years of relevant experience post-PhD (research or industry).
* Experience with Foundation models, including development and/or evaluation.
* Ability to drive knowledge development in Foundation models and demonstrate leadership potential.
Application and selection
You should systematically address the selection criteria listed within the position description in your application. Please apply online; applications sent to the contact listed will not be accepted.
Contact: Andy Pitman, a.pitman@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: October 8, 2025
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. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
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