Senior Research Associate – AI Ocean Forecasting

About the role

The University of New South Wales is seeking a Senior Research Associate to lead collaborative research at the intersection of data science, climate science and generative artificial intelligence. The role focuses on developing AI‑driven ocean current forecasting and ship‑route optimisation systems for the TRaCE‑funded project on decarbonising Australia’s transport supply chain.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop and validate generative AI models for ocean current prediction.
• Integrate data assimilation and reinforcement‑learning techniques into ship‑route optimisation algorithms.
• Publish high‑impact research findings and contribute to scholarly discourse.
• Collaborate with industry partner CounterCurrent Pty Ltd and UNSW research teams.
• Mentor postgraduate students and junior researchers, and support HDR supervision.

Required profile

• PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Climate Science or a closely related field.
• Proven track record of independent research and peer‑reviewed publications.
• Experience in securing or contributing to competitive research funding.
• Ability to work both autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Required skills

• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Climate Science
• Generative AI
• Reinforcement Learning
• Data Assimilation
• Ocean Current Forecasting
• Ship Route Optimisation

What we offer

• Fixed‑term contract (approximately 9 months) with a salary range $127k‑$150k plus superannuation and leave loading.
• Opportunity to work on cutting‑edge AI solutions within a university‑industry partnership.
• Access to UNSW’s state‑of‑the‑art research facilities and collaborative academic environment.