• Contribute to cutting-edge research directly supporting reef restoration efforts
• Full-time, fixed-term (2 year) opportunity at our National Marine Science Centre
• Base salary ranges from $74,559 - $100,213 per annum, plus 17% super

About us

Southern Cross University is a dynamic, ambitious institution focused on its purpose of changing lives through revolutionary learning and research with real impact. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper learning experience, improving individual student outcomes, quality of life and a better way to learn. Our world-ranked research is driving positive impact for our communities, environment and economy.

Working at Southern Cross University combines a rare combination of being surrounded by ambitious students, dedicated colleagues and an environment of stunning natural beauty. We are leaders in our communities in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Coffs Harbour and the Gold Coast and pride ourselves on helping shape a better tomorrow.

About the opportunity

Southern Cross University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate in Mechanical Engineering to join the Cooling and Shading sub-program of the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program (RRAP). This position offers an exciting opportunity to work closely with senior scientists across multiple research organizations on ground-breaking climate interventions.

As a Research Associate, you will play a critical role in advancing Marine Cloud Brightening (MCB) interventions through innovative engineering solutions. Your core responsibilities will include:

• Designing and optimizing bespoke infrastructure for seawater atomization, including pump systems, piping networks and nozzle assemblies.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to create functional prototypes of seawater atomization systems.
• Ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations in the design and operation of these systems.
• Contributing to the University's research profile through publications in high-quality journals.

About you

We are looking for a technically skilled and research-driven individual with a passion for climate engineering solutions. To excel in this role, you will have:

• A PhD in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and fluid systems design.
• Proficiency in CAD software for 3D modelling, simulation tools for fluid dynamics analysis, and engineering software for structural analysis and optimization.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and fabricating techniques for mechanical systems.

Salary and benefits

Our staff benefit from flexible work arrangements, including hybrid work models, generous parental and carer’s leave provisions, wellbeing initiatives, employee assistance programs and professional learning opportunities. This position is:

• Full-time, fixed term (2 years)
• Located at Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450.
• Academic Level A. The base salary ranges from $74,559 - $100,213 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $ 117,249.

Find out more about working at SCU by visiting Why Work at SCU.

Application requirements

Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter responding to the selection criteria within the position description by the closing date. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website. If you experience difficulties applying online or need reasonable adjustments at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know by contacting jobs@scu.edu.au.  

Job applicants must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, Australian permanent resident or currently hold a visa with unrestricted work rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Further information

Additional information is available in the position description or by contacting:
Name: Ceylena Holloway, Scientific Project Manager, Faculty of Science and Engineering

Phone: 02 6659 8133
Email: ceylena.holloway@scu.edu.au

Closing Date: 11:30 pm AEST, Sunday 15 September

Southern Cross University is committed to ensuring that the University reflects the rich diversity across the region in which the University’s campuses are located.

The University encourages applications from people of all ages, women, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people, people living with disabilities, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people who are LGBTQI+.

We encourage applications from people with disability and will provide adjustments to the recruitment process upon request.

Together, we are Transforming Tomorrow.