Postdoctoral Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Fusion Reactor Engineering Design

Postdoctoral Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Fusion Reactor Engineering Design and Simulations
Join to apply for the Postdoctoral Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Fusion Reactor Engineering Design and Simulations role at UNSW
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate (Level A) or Senior Research Associate (Level B) to pursue the design development and simulations of engineering solutions for fusion energy reactor design. The successful candidate will carry out both independent and team research within a collaborative partnership between UNSW and the fusion energy company HB-11 Energy. This position supports a broader project aimed at accelerating the development of inertial fusion energy reactor concepts using advanced fuels.
Responsibilities
In this role you will focus on coupling the optimisation of fuel target development, conducted by the industrial partner, with the design of the reactor chamber and auxiliary systems such as cooling, shielding, and laser optics. Work will include life assessments of components under intense x‑ray, neutron, and charged‑particle flux; material selection for structural and functional reactor components; exploration of advanced and conventional cooling systems; energy extraction and conversion pathways; target delivery mechanisms; and radiation shielding options.
Your research will contribute to the project outcomes that will provide insight into the feasibility and potential of advanced, quasi‑aneutronic fusion energy reactor concepts. For HB‑11 Energy, the results will directly inform the company’s technology roadmap and contribute to balance‑of‑plant modelling to assess economic viability. The successful candidate will join Patrick Burr’s diverse and multicultural research group and collaborate with the HB‑11 Energy research team, also located in Sydney.
Qualifications

A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience.
Experience in at least two of the following areas: engineering design, thermodynamics calculations, heat transfer, fluid flow, radiation shielding, radiation damage, particle transport.
Computational skills allowing to compose or modify comprehensive simulation open‑source codes.
Experience in data analysis and simulations of complex and coupled nuclear engineering problems, using techniques such as molecular dynamics, computational fluid dynamics, activation decay codes, kinetic Monte Carlo codes, particle transport codes, finite element or finite difference methods, peridynamics, phase field models, multi‑objective optimisation methods, CAD.
Demonstrated ability to adapt to fast‑changing project direction and learn new skills or techniques to meet project objectives.
Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
Demonstrated ability to undertake high‑quality academic research, individually or in a team.
Demonstrated track record of peer‑reviewed publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills, ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
An 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.

Salary and Benefits

Salary:

Level A – AUD $113,911 to $121,838 per annum + 17% superannuation
Level B – AUD $127,947 to $150,830 per annum + 17% superannuation

Full time
Fixed‑term contract – 3 years
Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

Application Process
Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application.
Pre‑Employment Checks: Candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre‑employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for, including National and International Criminal history checks, Entitlement to work and ID checks, Working With Children Checks, Gender‑Based Violence Prevention Declaration, Verification of relevant qualifications, Verification of relevant professional membership, Employment history and reference checks, Financial responsibility assessments, Medical Checks and Assessments.
Contact
For role‑specific inquiries, please contact A/Prof Patrick Burr (Group Leader)E: p.burr@unsw.edu.au
For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Partner)E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au
Equal Employment Opportunity
UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. 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.
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Thursday 12 February 2026
#J-18808-Ljbffr