"Associate Research Fellow"

• Fixed Term, Full-Time Appointment (2 years)
• Level A: $97,061 - $113,715 plus 17% superannuation
• Wollongong Campus & Innovation Campus

The University of Wollongong (UOW) is seeking an outstanding Associate Research Fellow to join the ARC Research Hub for Australian Steel Innovation (Steel Research Hub), a $28 million national research initiative supporting the transformation of Australia’s steel manufacturing industry.

About the Role

This position sits within Program 2 (Product Innovation and Technology) and contributes to Project 2.1.3 – Coatings Technology. The successful candidate will undertake high-quality research investigating the thermomechanical and mechanical behaviour of advanced polymer-based coatings in collaboration with a major industry partner.

The project spans molecular, nano- and macrostructural domains and draws on polymer physics, interface science and physical chemistry to develop a mechanistic understanding of coating weathering. The research will explore how crosslinking, entanglement, segmental activity and free volume influence structural change and long-term performance, with the goal of enabling innovative, more durable coating systems.

Key Responsibilities

The Associate Research Fellow will design and implement a research program aligned with project objectives, develop and commission experimental methodologies, and coordinate materials handling and characterisation activities. The role includes preparing publications, intellectual property documentation and reports, supporting project management activities, contributing to grant development, and assisting with the supervision and training of HDR students.

The appointee will work closely with academic colleagues and industry partners and will contribute to workshops, meetings and broader Hub activities.

Essential Criteria

Applicants must hold a PhD in polymer chemistry, polymer physics or a closely related discipline. Demonstrated experience in the thermomechanical characterisation of polymers—such as dynamic mechanical analysis, nanoindentation, atomic force microscopy or nanorheology—is essential, along with expertise in crosslinked polymer systems and structure–property relationships.

A strong understanding of polymer weathering and associated chemical and structural changes is required. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, supported by a strong publication record and excellent written and verbal communication skills.

About the Steel Research Hub

Led by UOW, the Steel Research Hub brings together nine universities and eight industry partners to deliver collaborative research that advances sustainable, high-value steel manufacturing in Australia.

How To Apply

Applicants are required to submit an up-to-date CV and a cover letter (no more than 3 pages) summarising their skills and experience as it relates to the selection criteria located in the position description. 

Position Description

For further information about this opportunity please contact Associate Professor, Christopher Richardson crichard@uow.edu.au 

Closing Date: 16 March 2026, 11:55pm 

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.

The University of Wollongong is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. As an equal opportunity employer, and a recognised leader in gender equality, we encourage and welcome applications from a diverse range of backgrounds and people including culturally and linguistically diverse, women, disability, LGBTIQ+, and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australians.