Research Fellow

Job Description:

• Undertake independent research in free-space optical communication, specifically optimised for operations within maritime environments.
• Join a cutting-edge research group developing advanced photonic systems for astronomy, space science, and national security.
• Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for 2 years.
• Base salary range: $118,150– $139,812 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) is a joint venture between Curtin University and The University of Western Australia (UWA), established in 2009 and funded through 2030 with $65 million from the WA State Government. ICRAR is a leading institution in radio astronomy and a key Australian contributor to the global SKA project. The Astrophotonics Group within ICRAR develops advanced photonic systems for radio and optical astronomy, with a focus on long-distance transfer of stabilised frequency and timing signals via optical fibre and free-space laser links.

About the opportunity

• Lead a small research team in the area of free-space optical communication, specifically optimised for operations within maritime environments.
• Coordinating this work with project partner organisations including industry, government, and defence.
• Conduct technical work across a combination of optomechanics, communications engineering, software development, and atmospheric physics.

About you

• Tertiary qualification in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering or a related field.
• Experience in one or more of the following: free-space optical engineering; optical communications systems and photonic technologies; mechanical engineering and fabrication; software, programming, simulation, and algorithm development (Python or MATLAB); and optical propagation through the atmosphere, particularly in maritime environments
• Experience with high-quality supervision of junior staff and HDR students.
• Project management experience and organisational skills with the demonstrated ability to set priorities and to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, show initiative, problem solve and work productively as part of a team.