Research Associate – Electrified Transportation

The Opportunity

The Research Associate will contribute to an ARC Discovery Project that aims to research and develop a framework to optimise the schedule and operation of electrified transport fleets, such as buses, trucks and aircraft. The framework will account for schedule uncertainty and adapt to factors such as battery health, charger availability and unexpected delays. Expected outcomes include improved reliability and efficiency, extended battery life, and reduced operational costs. The role of Research Associate reports to Assoc. Prof. Branislav Hredzak.

• Salary, Level A - $118,467 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full Time
• Fixed-term contract for 2 years 6 months
• Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia
• Start date will be from September 2026

Skills & Experience

• A PhD (or soon to be awarded) in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, Energy Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a closely related field.
• In-depth knowledge of modern power and energy systems, including distributed energy resources, renewable energy integration, system stability, security, network analysis, energy storage, and operational optimisation.
• Strong research background in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and mathematical optimisation, with demonstrated applications to real-world engineering problems in energy, infrastructure, transport electrification, or closely related domains.
• Proven ability to develop and critically evaluate data-driven methods and computational models for forecasting, decision support, and system operation.
• Familiarity with privacy-aware and distributed learning approaches, as well as awareness of emerging advanced AI techniques relevant to engineering research.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.