Research Associate

Job Description

This Job is based in Australia

The Opportunity

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) has an opportunity for a Research Associate / Senior Research Associate. The positions will be part of a team of academics, post-doctoral researchers and post-graduate research students that will collaborate closely with industry partners and with other researchers across UNSW faculties via UNSWs Collaboration on Energy and Environmental Markets (CEEM). CEEM undertakes interdisciplinary research on improving the economic and environmental sustainability of the Australian National Electricity Market, and other electricity industries worldwide. More information is available at www.ceem.unsw.edu.au

Skills

The Research Associate (Level A) / Senior Research Associate (Level B) will contribute to one or more projects, depending on candidate interests and skills, using energy systems data analysis and modelling and the development of open-source tools e.g. in Python, R, Matlab or Excel to contribute to the energy transition of Consumer Energy Resources (CER), including:

- Handling and analysis of large real-world datasets from consumer energy resources (CER) such as rooftop PV, batteries, and electric vehicles (EVs).
- Querying and manipulating large real-world datasets from different databases & platforms (AWS, SQL, Azure)
- Creating new algorithms to analyse compliance of CER according to relevant Australian standards (AS 4777.2020.2, CSIP-AUS, IEEE).
- Creating new algorithms to analyse curtailment of CER according to relevant Australian standards (AS 4777.2020.2, CSIP-AUS, IEEE) and under Emergency Backstop Mechanism (EBM).
- Developing open-source tools to help DNSPs and network operators for managing and planning for CER operations.
- Creating data visualisations to understand the value of CER and explore emerging challenges with increasing penetration of CER in distribution networks and at the system level.
- Engage with industry partners via regular meetings, presentations and write industry reports.

This position is being offered as either a Research Associate (Level A) or a Senior Research Associate (Level B), theappointment levelwill be commensurate with the candidates qualifications and experience.

- Salary:

- Level A, Research Associate - AUD$113,911 to $121,838 per annum + 17% superannuation
- Level B, Senior Research Associate - AUD$127,947 to $150,830 per annum + 17% superannuation

- Full time
- Fixed-term contract Until December 2027
- Location: Kensington Sydney, Australia

About UNSW

UNSW isnt like other places youve worked. Yes, were a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isnt only what we do, its how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, youre in the right place.

This position is within the School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) that is internationally recognised for its record-breaking research in solar power (photovoltaics) and renewable energy. The PERC solar cell was first invented at UNSW in our labs in 1983 and today powers more than 85% of all new solar panel modules all over the world. SPREEs work and people have changed the face of sustainable energy on the global stage, and we continue to be at the forefront of leading-edge research and development in the field of renewable technology as our economies transition away from fossil fuels. For more information on our school please go to - https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/photovoltaic-and-renewable-energy-engineering

Skills & Experience

Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Level A

- A PhD or equivalent research experience in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
- Experience in technical and economic modelling of renewable generation or distributed energy resources such as energy storage and demand-side participation including aspects of energy user behaviour, distribution network implications, integration of renewable or distributed resources into electricity industry operation or planning.
- Expertise in analysis and modelling using large energy related data sets; including formal statistical analysis and the use of artificial intelligence such as pattern recognition and machine learning techniques.
- Demonstrated experience with the development and management of large energy data sets is desirable.
- Qualities of an independent researcher, ability to drive and progress projects tasks independently, having a can-do attitude, seeking for innovation opportunities and being pro-active
- Experience or interest in developing open-source modelling tools that provide opportunities for a wider set of stakeholders to undertake electricity industry analysis.
- Experience interacting with the profession and industry, in particular electricity networks, electricity market institutions and distributed energy businesses in Australia is highly desirable.
- Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
- Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
- Demonstrated track record of publications and 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.

Level B (in addition to the above)

- A PhD or equivalent research experience in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
- Experience in technical and economic modelling of renewable generation or distributed energy resources such as energy storage and demand-side participation including aspects of energy user behaviour, distribution network implications, integration of renewable or distributed resources into electricity industry operation or planning.
- Expertise in analysis and modelling using large energy related data sets; including formal statistical analysis and the use of artificial intelligence such as pattern recognition and machine learning techniques.
- Demonstrated experience with the development and management of large energy data sets is desirable.
- Qualities of an independent researcher, ability to drive and progress projects tasks independently, having a can-do attitude, seeking for innovation opportunities and being pro-active
- Experience or interest in developing open-source modelling tools that provide opportunities for a wider set of stakeholders to undertake electricity industry analysis.
- Experience interacting with the profession and industry, in particular electricity networks, electricity market institutions and distributed energy businesses in Australia is highly desirable.
- Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
- Demonstrated excellent track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact with clear evidence of the desire and ability to continually achieve research excellence as well as the capacity for research leadership.
- A track record of significant involvement with the profession and/or industry.
- A strong practice of maintaining open-source code repository.
- High level communication skills and ability to network effectively and interact with a diverse range of students and staff.
- Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
- Evidence of highly developed interpersonal and organisational skills.
- Ability to build effective networks with colleagues and generate alternative funding and/or industry projects through effective liaison with external local and international researchers, industry and government.

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.

To Apply: Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application. Applicants must have valid working rights in Australia and be available to work on-site in Kensington.

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on 28th of September 2025

Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Contact:

Allyssar Hamoud Talent Acquisition Associate

E: [Confidential Information]

UNSW 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 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.