Associate Research Fellow (Software Engineer), Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future

Make an impact at the University of Wollongong (UOW) - a purpose driven institution ranked in the top 1% of universities globally.

About the Role

We are seeking a Software Engineer to join the Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future (SAEF) program at the University of Wollongong. Working within a nationally and internationally recognised research team, you will develop innovative methods, models and software solutions for embedded AI, autonomous systems, swarming drones and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies that support environmental monitoring in some of the world's most remote environments.

Reporting to Australian Laureate Fellow, Distinguished Professor Sharon Robinson, you will collaborate with leading researchers and industry partners to deliver cutting-edge research outcomes and contribute to projects that help shape the future of Antarctic environmental stewardship.

About the Team

Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future (SAEF) is a prestigious Australian Research Council Special Research Initiative bringing together 30 national and international partner organisations and over 50 researchers and practitioners from diverse disciplines. The University of Wollongong's SAEF team is part of a collaborative network spanning universities, government agencies, research institutes and industry partners, including NVIDIA and the National Computing Infrastructure.

Together, the team is developing innovative technologies and solutions to better understand, protect and manage Antarctic environments.
What You'll Bring

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• A completed PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.
• Experience in embedded computing and monitoring systems.
• Strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated project management experience and the ability to deliver outcomes in a collaborative research environment.
• Commitment to workplace health and safety, quality assurance, risk management, equity, diversity and inclusion principles.

Highly Regarded

• Post-PhD research experience in computer science, robotics or electrical engineering.
• Experience supervising Honours, Higher Degree Research (HDR) students or research teams.
• Experience contributing to grant applications and research funding submissions.
• Willingness and ability to undertake domestic and international travel, including potential travel to Antarctica.

Why Join UOW

• Competitive salary package including 17% superannuation
• 35-hour full-time work week supporting greater balance and flexibility
• Flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies
• Generous leave entitlements including additional concession days over the Christmas-New Year period
• Purchased leave options to provide greater flexibility throughout the year
• Ongoing professional development and clear career progression opportunities

Role Details

• Employment type: Fixed-term full-time appointment (2 years)
• Level A: $97,061 - $113,715 + 17% Superannuation
• Level B: $124,928 - $144,275 + 17% Superannuation
• Position will be offered at level commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Position Description
• Applicants must hold valid Australian work rights. Visa sponsorship is not available.

How to Apply

Click on the 'Apply Now' button at the bottom of the advertisement. You'll be prompted to respond to a selection criteria questionnaire as part of the application process. Please also attach your CV to your application.

For further information about this position, please contact Distinguished Professor Sharon Robinson ([email protected]).

Closing Date: 30 August 2026, 11:55pm

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Wollongong is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where diversity is valued, respected and celebrated. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve, removes barriers to participation, and provides equitable opportunities for staff to reach their full potential. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of all gender identities and sexual orientations, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and those with caring or family responsibilities.

As required by federal legislation, prospective employees are required to declare whether they have been investigated for an allegation of Gender based Violence or determined to have engaged in conduct that constitutes Gender based Violence, during their previous employment, or otherwise in a legal process. Any such declaration will be included in the University's employment screening processes and will be treated with the strictest confidence and in compliance with all privacy legislation.

At the University of Wollongong (UOW), our people are united by a shared purpose - to create a better future through education, research, innovation and meaningful community impact.

With deep local roots and a growing global presence, UOW is proud to contribute to positive change in the communities we serve and the world beyond them. Guided by our Vision 2035 and Strategic Plan 2030, we are building a future that is innovative, inclusive and committed to societal impact - one where people, ideas and opportunity can thrive.

We are recognised for excellence in teaching and research, and for the real-world impact of our work. But what truly brings UOW to life is our people. Across every role, our staff contribute to something bigger - helping shape the future through the work they do every day.

At UOW, we are committed to fostering a culture where people feel valued, supported and empowered to do their best work. Our Values in Action guide how we work, lead and make decisions - creating a workplace grounded in integrity, accountability, collaboration and excellence.

Joining UOW means becoming part of a values-led community where your work has purpose, your contribution is valued, and the impact you make can be felt locally and globally.