Postdoctoral Research Associate (Pure Mathematics)

Job no: 523511

Work type: Full Time

Location: Crawley

Categories: Engineering and Mathematical Sciences

• Work on a prestigious ARC-funded research project at the forefront of mathematical discovery.
• Join a globally recognised research centre (CMSC) with a highly collaborative, international research culture.
• Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 3 years.
• Base salary range: Level A-B, $83,499 – $112,371 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The Centre for the Mathematics of Symmetry and Computation (CMSC) is a globally recognised research centre within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at The University of Western Australia. CMSC brings together leading researchers in algebra, combinatorics and related disciplines, including finite geometry, algebraic graph theory, permutation group theory, coding theory and extremal combinatorics.

The Centre offers a dynamic and inclusive research environment supported by regular seminars, international collaborations, visiting scholars and an annual research retreat, enabling researchers to engage deeply with cutting-edge mathematical challenges.

About the opportunity

• Conduct high-impact research in finite geometry, extremal combinatorics and Ramsey theory.
• Develop and analyse geometric and algebraic constructions of graphs arising from finite fields, projective and polar spaces, and related structures.
• Apply computational methods (e.g. Magma, GAP, SageMath, Python) to test conjectures and explore new mathematical directions.
• Publish research outcomes in leading peer-reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences and seminars.
• Collaborate closely with Associate Professor John Bamberg, project investigators, CMSC researchers and international partners.
• Contribute to the supervision and mentoring of Honours, Masters and PhD students.

About you

• PhD in Mathematics or a closely related discipline, with expertise in areas such as finite geometry, Ramsey theory, combinatorics, algebraic graph theory or computational mathematics.
• Demonstrated research capability, including a developing publication record and ability to contribute original ideas to collaborative projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to develop rigorous mathematical proofs and perform complex calculations.
• Experience with (or willingness to learn) computational tools such as Python, Magma, GAP or SageMath.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present research clearly and work effectively in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current National Police Clearance may be required by the successful applicant.

Position description: Postdoctoral Research Associate 523511 .pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Associate Professor John Bamberg at john.bamberg@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Talent Advisor at zen.huang@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Wednesday, 22 July 2026

This position is open to international applicants.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.