"Postdoctoral Research Associate - Advanced Laser Cladding Metal Matrix Composite Coatings - Modelling and Optimization"

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Advanced Laser Cladding Metal Matrix Composite Coatings - Modelling and Optimization

• Full time fixed term 2-year position
• Work within a major industry‑backed, multidisciplinary research partnership developing cutting‑edge metal composite coatings for extreme industrial environments
• Base Salary $113400 + 17% superannuation 

About the opportunity

We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a major multi-disciplinary research partnership between Laser Bond Ltd, the Advanced Composite Manufacturing CRC (ACM CRC), and the University of Sydney. This industry-backed initiative focuses on high‑productivity metal composite coatings designed for extreme industrial environments.

Laser Bond is a leader in advanced surface engineering technologies, transforming industrial performance through innovative laser cladding solutions. ACM CRC is committed to strengthening Australia’s manufacturing sector through intelligent automation, technology innovation, and workforce development.

This collaborative project will advance the next generation of wear- and corrosion-resistant metal matrix composite (MMC) coatings. You will help fill critical knowledge gaps in process monitoring, optimisation, and control for laser cladding, contributing directly to the development of a cost‑effective, environmentally friendly, fully automated coating system suitable for marine, mining, defence, and other demanding applications.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• Conduct research into laser cladding processes, including parameter optimisation and advanced monitoring techniques.
• Develop and refine process models, simulations, and automation strategies.
• Characterise microstructure, wear behaviour, and corrosion resistance of MMC coatings.
• Identify bottlenecks and limitations in manufacturing workflows and propose engineering solutions.
• Contribute to prototype development, quality assessment, and performance validation.
• Publish results in high-impact journals and present at leading conferences.
• Collaborate directly with industry partners to ensure practical translation of research outcomes.

About you

We are looking for candidates who are passionate about applying research to industrial challenges. You will have:

Essential:

• A PhD in materials science, mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a related field.
• Research experience in one or more of the following:
• laser processing or additive manufacturing
• metal matrix composites
• coatings or surface engineering
• automation, sensing, or process control
• digital twin
• computational modelling or simulation (CFD, Abacus and/or COMSOL)
• Strong experimental skills and ability to work in a laboratory environment.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.

Desirable:

• Experience working with industry partners or on industry-focused research.
• Knowledge of advanced characterisation techniques (SEM, EDX, XRD, tribology).
• Experience with data-driven monitoring approaches (e.g., machine learning, real-time sensing).

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to be eligible to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. 

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Gold employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. 

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Cherie Goodwin or Rebecca Astar, Recruitment Operations by email to recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au

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The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

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Applications Close

Thursday 16 April 2026 11:59 PM