Research Associate

Overview

Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Consumer Energy Resources (x2 positions) at UNSW.

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 collaborate with industry partners and with other researchers across UNSW faculties via UNSW's 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.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to one or more projects using energy systems data analysis and modelling and the development of open-source tools (e.g., in Python, R, Matlab or Excel) to support the energy transition of Consumer Energy Resources (CER).
• Handle and analyse large real-world datasets from CER such as rooftop PV, batteries, and electric vehicles (EVs).
• Query and manipulate large datasets from different databases and platforms (AWS, SQL, Azure).
• Create algorithms to analyse compliance of CER with relevant Australian standards (AS 4777.2020.2, CSIP-AUS, IEEE).
• Create algorithms to analyse curtailment of CER under relevant standards and the Emergency Backstop Mechanism (EBM).
• Develop open-source tools to assist DNSPs and network operators in managing and planning CER operations.
• Create data visualisations to understand the value of CER and explore emerging challenges with increasing CER penetration in distribution networks and at the system level.
• Engage with industry partners through regular meetings, presentations and industry reports.

Qualifications

This position is offered at either:

• Level A – Research Associate; or
• Level B – Senior Research Associate. Appointment level will be commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience.

Level A (Research Associate)

• 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, including energy storage and demand-side participation, with attention to energy user behaviour and distribution network implications.
• Expertise in analysis and modelling using large energy-related data sets, including formal statistical analysis and machine learning techniques.
• Experience or interest in developing open-source modelling tools for electricity industry analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team; proactive and innovative mindset.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to interact with diverse stakeholders.

Level B (Senior Research Associate)

• All Level A requirements, plus:
• Excellent track record in research with outcomes of high quality and impact; leadership potential and ability to generate funding or industry collaborations.
• A strong history of involvement with the profession and/or industry.
• Experience maintaining open-source code repositories and networking with external partners.
• High-level communication and organisational skills; ability to build and sustain networks with colleagues and industry partners.

Salary and terms

• 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 is committed to equity and an inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability and those with caring responsibilities. Reasonable workplace adjustments are available.

How to apply

To apply: please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. Systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description. 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 28 September 2025.

Contact

Allyssar Hamoud – Talent Acquisition Associate

E: a.hamoud@unsw.edu.au

UNSW is an equal opportunity employer and embraces diversity in its workforce.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

---