Research Associate - Climate

About UNSW

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is one of Australia’s leading research and teaching universities, offering a vibrant campus life and a strong sense of community and inclusion.

• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best

Location

This role is located in Sydney, Australia.

About the Centre

The Climate Change Research Centre (CCRC) is a multidisciplinary research centre within UNSW, comprising one of the largest universities research facilities of its kind in Australia. It houses expertise in Earth’s climate: atmospheric, oceanic and terrestrial processes. We apply basic scientific principles to pressing questions on climate dynamics, global climate change and extremes of weather and climate.

The project is a collaboration with the UNSW Water Research Centre (WRC) based in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering. The WRC undertakes multidisciplinary research in water and environmental engineering, developing tools to improve the management and sustainability of communities and aquatic and atmospheric environments.

About the Role

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct research on the Australian Research Council funded Linkage project “Connecting changing sub‑daily precipitation extremes to flash floods”. The project collaborates with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, as the State Emergency Services (NSW).

• Level A – $113k – $121k – plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 2.5 years
• Full‑time (35 hours per week)

Responsibilities

• Contribute independently and as a team member in collaborative research with other researchers among Linkage project partner organisations, focusing on short‑duration rainfall extremes and flooding.
• Conduct research and/or enable research teams to produce scholarly output recognised by peers.
• Co‑design and co‑produce research projects through stakeholder interaction during the research process.
• Communicate research findings by publishing in highly ranked journals and presenting at local, national and global conferences.
• Undertake specific research projects under the guidance of the Linkage project Chief Investigators and contribute to the development of research activities.
• Analyse observations (including weather radars)/reanalysis in relation to model simulations.
• Analyse output from bespoke model experiments and large ensembles (e.g., CMIP, CORDEX, NARCliM).
• Take on leadership opportunities such as contributing to PhD supervision, committee membership, leading workshops, etc.
• Participate in or present at conferences and workshops relevant to the project as required.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take reasonable care to ensure that actions do not impact the health and safety of yourself or others.

Qualifications / Selection Criteria

• PhD in Physical Climate Science, Climate Modelling or Atmospheric Science or related discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high‑quality scientific research independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Demonstrated track record of strong research and publication in an area listed in the position summary.
• Evidence of high‑level analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Evidence of highly developed verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated programming skills in a Unix/Linux environment (e.g. Python, R).
• Knowledge of regional climate processes and/or land‑atmosphere interactions and/or atmosphere dynamics.
• Experience in application of weather radar data and analysis of regional climate projections.
• Understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

How to Apply

Please apply online. Applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Contact

Jason Evans
E: jason.evans@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: April 27th, 2026

EEO Statement

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.