Senior Research Associate – Data Science & Climate Science

About the role

The University of New South Wales is seeking a Senior Research Associate to lead cutting‑edge research at the intersection of data science, climate science and artificial intelligence. You will develop generative AI models for ocean current forecasting and ship‑route optimisation as part of the TRaCE‑funded project on decarbonising Australia’s transport supply chain.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct collaborative research in AI‑driven ocean forecasting, data assimilation and reinforcement learning.
• Design, train, validate and implement generative AI systems for ocean current prediction and ship‑route optimisation.
• Publish high‑impact scholarly work and contribute to the research community.
• Develop independent research proposals and assist in competitive grant applications.
• Mentor postgraduate students and junior researchers, supervising HDR projects where required.

Required profile

• Post‑doctoral level experience in data science, climate science or related AI research.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience in designing research projects and securing research funding.
• Demonstrated track record of publishing peer‑reviewed research.
• Capability to supervise and mentor early‑career researchers.

Required skills

• Generative artificial intelligence (genAI)
• Ocean current forecasting
• Ship‑route optimisation
• Data assimilation
• Reinforcement learning
• Data Science

What we offer

• Fixed‑term contract (approx. 9 months, until 31 Mar 2027)
• Salary Level B: $127 K–$150 K AUD plus 17 % superannuation and annual leave loading
• Full‑time position (35 hours/week) on a vibrant Sydney campus
• Opportunities to collaborate with industry partner CounterCurrent Pty Ltd and leading academics