Associate Professor (Teaching and Research) in Experimental Rock Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering and Geomechanics

Job Reference Number: 1493351

Curtin University is seeking an outstanding academic leader to join the Western Australian School of Mines (WASM) as an Associate Professor (Teaching and Research) specialising in Experimental Rock Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering and Geomechanics.

This is a strategically critical role that will strengthen WASM’s global leadership in rock mechanics education, research and industry engagement, while supporting long-term academic leadership and succession within the discipline.

Join us and be part of a globally recognised mining school with over 120 years of history whilst working at the epicentre of the mining industry, where innovation meets real-world application.

About the Role:

Based at Curtin’s Kalgoorlie campus, the Associate Professor will provide leadership in teaching, research and industry collaboration in rock mechanics and mining geomechanics. The successful candidate will develop and lead an internationally recognised research program focused on the mechanical behaviour of intact rock, discontinuities and rock masses under complex stress, hydraulic and thermal conditions.

Research will involve advanced laboratory experimentation and field-based investigations, addressing major geomechanical challenges such as excavation stability, ground control, rockburst hazard, and geotechnical risk management in high‑stress mining environments.

The role includes delivering high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, supervising Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students, securing competitive research funding, and strengthening WASM’s strong connections with the global mining industry.

This appointment will also contribute to future leadership continuity within the Rock Mechanics group, with scope for the successful candidate to assume broader academic leadership in the medium term.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Provide academic leadership in teaching, research and industry engagement within WASM
• Develop and lead a competitive, externally funded research program in experimental rock mechanics or geomechanics.
• Conduct advanced laboratory and field research, including high-pressure rock testing, fracture and failure analysis, and geomechanical monitoring.
• Publish high-impact research outputs in leading international journals and at conferences
• Deliver and develop undergraduate and postgraduate courses in rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering and mining ground control.
• Supervise honours, Master’s and PhD students.
• Build strong partnerships with mining and resources industry, government and research organisations
• Contribute to academic governance, curriculum development and strategic initiatives within WASM.

Selection Criteria - Who we are looking for:

You will be an internationally recognised researcher and educator with:

1. A PhD in rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering, mining engineering or a closely related discipline.
2. The ability to mentor and inspire staff, ensuring an innovative and high-performing academic environment.
3. A strong understanding of pedagogical theory and contemporary educational practice relevant to the discipline and a record of leading scholarship in teaching.
4. A strong track record of high-impact research and competitive grant success
5. Demonstrated expertise in experimental rock mechanics and/or mining geomechanics
6. Excellence in university teaching and HDR supervision
7. Strong industry engagement and research translation experience
8. The capacity to provide academic leadership and contribute to the long-term development of the discipline

Role Requirements:

• As this is a continuing (permanent) role, you will require permanent work rights in Australia. We will also consider international candidates who are eligible for a relevant visa.
• Periodic travel between Curtin’s Kalgoorlie and Perth campuses will be required for teaching, research, and administrative purposes.
• Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction.

What We Offer You:

This continuing (permanent), full time ALD level role attracts a remuneration of $173,635 - $191,099 + a regional living allowance and 17% superannuation.

Join Us!

If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:

• Up-to-date Resume
• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience
• A document addressing the selection criteria for the role (noted above)

If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, please contact our careers team on CurtinCareers@curtin.edu.au or 08 9266 9000 (option 3,1), quoting the reference number. Applications will not be accepted via this email address, and late applications will not be accepted.

Applications close: 9.00pm (AWST), Sunday, 24 May 2026