Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Severe Thunderstorm Observations and Analysis

About the role

The University of Queensland's School of Civil Engineering offers a full-time, fixed-term Postdoctoral Research Fellow / Research Officer position in severe thunderstorm observations and analysis, based at the St Lucia Campus in Brisbane. The role runs through to 11 February 2028 and involves fieldwork with researchers from the School of Civil Engineering, the School of the Environment and the Bureau of Meteorology, capturing measurements with mobile radar and LiDAR during severe thunderstorms across Southeast Queensland and developing methods to analyse near-surface hail and wind.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and undertake fieldwork across Southeast Queensland, operating radar, LiDAR and weather monitoring systems, and advance methods to analyse near-surface wind and hail
• Produce high-quality research outputs for publication and industry partners
• Contribute to the supervision and development of Honours and Higher Degree by Research students, giving guidance, feedback, coaching and professional development
• Contribute to school activities, team support and external engagement

Required profile

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in Engineering or Science, with a focus on measurement, analysis or modelling of atmospheric flows; severe weather focus is not essential
• An MPhil (or equivalent) with research in these areas is also considered
• Unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of the appointment; visa sponsorship is not available

Required skills

• Analysis of large observational or numerical data sets of atmospheric variables
• Mathematical programming and analysis in Python, R or equivalent
• Desired: experience collecting and analysing observations with radar, LiDAR or surface weather stations, and managing fieldwork campaigns in severe weather
• Desired: expertise in optimisation or inverse problems in earth sciences or geophysics, and experience modelling complex fluid flows such as CFD
• Publications in refereed journals and conference presentations are welcomed

What we offer

• Base salary of $85,372.89 - $113,659.72 plus 17% superannuation (Academic Level A)
• Access to world-class facilities, grant writing support and research funding opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave and 17.5% annual leave loading

Applications close 11 November 2026. Applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and answers to the 'About You' section through the university's online application system.