Australian Catholic University

1 x full time, fixed term (2 years) position available in the School of Science within STEM College Salary Academic Level A ($80,755 - $109,536) + 17% Superannuation Based at the City, but may be required to work and/or be based at other campuses of the University About the Role We are seeking an engineer to develop next-generation photonic devices using artificial intelligence, inverse design methods, and physics-based modelling. The role is embedded within the ARC E2Crop Hub and the Centre for Atomaterials and Nanomanufacturing (RMIT University), which focus on renewable energy systems, intelligent sensing, advanced materials, and nanoscale device technologies. The successful candidate will develop machine learning approaches (including generative models and physics-informed neural networks) to design and optimise integrated photonic devices and metasurfaces. This includes building automated workflows that link electromagnetic simulation tools with AI models to accelerate device discovery and performance optimisation. The role involves applying computational methods such as topology optimisation, adjoint techniques, and data-driven modelling to identify high-performance, manufacturable photonic structures while accounting for fabrication limits and multi-physics effects. You will also contribute to internal software tools that support rapid prototyping and enable broader research teams to use AI-driven design methods. The position offers access to advanced computational infrastructure and fabrication facilities, supporting research at the intersection of photonics, AI, and nanotechnology. About You Deep understanding of waveguide optics, light-matter interaction, and plasmonics Proficiency with electromagnetic simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical FDTD/MODE, COMSOL Multiphysics, Ansys HFSS, or Meep) Familiarity with Photonic Integrated device design flow and foundry PDKs (Silicon Photonics, SiN, or III-V) Strong proficiency in Python and machine learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, or JAX) Experience with photonic design techniques and global optimisation algorithms (Genetic Algorithms, Particle Swarm, Gradient Descent) Experience implementing deep learning architectures relevant to physics, such as CNNs for image-based field prediction, Graph Neural Networks (GNNs), or Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) Solid grasp of numerical methods, partial differential equations (PDEs), and linear algebra Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) or cloud-based simulation acceleration Experience with integrated photonic device fabrication and light-matter interactions Evidence of research output including high quality publications, conference contributions and/or technical reports in the field. Ability to generate alternative funding projects through effective liaison with industry and government. Ability to work autonomously whilst displaying a strong commitment to work in a team environment, including the demonstrated ability to confidently and effectively work with colleagues, project team leaders, and industry partners. Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and effectively manage varying workloads and respond to changing priorities as required. Demonstrated high level of communication skills. Qualifications Mandatory: Ph.D. degree in Optical engineering, Applied Physics, or Computer Science Publication record in top-tier journals, demonstrating the application of machine learning to physical problems Experience with surrogate modelling to replace computationally expensive simulations Knowledge of lithography limitations and design-for-manufacturability (DFM). Problem-solving abilities for determining innovative solutions to the complex problems common to photonics design and fabrication. Attention to detail for ensuring precision in coding and model training - and enhancing the accuracy and reliability of AI modelling and data quality. Collaborative skills for working effectively with data scientists, software developers, and project managers. Adaptability, including a willingness to stay updated with the rapidly evolving field of frontier research and learn new techniques and technologies as they emerge. Communication skills for explaining technical project requirements, progress, and outcomes to non-technical stakeholders Please Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children and National Police Check. To Apply Please submit your CV and covering letter and address the Key Selection Criteria for this position by clicking on the 'Apply' link at the top of this page. For more information on this role, please connect with Dr. Mingdeng Luo, ARC E2Crop Hub Manager at mingdeng.luo2@rmit.edu.au Position Description - Research Assistant, AI Driven Photonics Design Engineer Please note, if you are viewing this advert from an external site, please click 'apply' and you will be redirected to RMIT's Jobs website to access the Position Description at the bottom of the page. Due to recent upgrades, position description links may not work on LinkedIn advertisements.Applications close on 14th of June, Sunday.About RMIT UniversityRMIT is a multi-sector university of technology, design and enterprise with more than 96,000 students and close to 10,000 staff globally. The University's mission is to help shape the world through research, innovation and engagement, and to create transformative experiences for students to prepare them for life and work.https://www.rmit.edu.au/abouthttps://www.universitiesaustralia.edu.au/university/rmit-universityWhy work at RMIT UniversityOur people make everything at the University possible. We encourage new approaches to work and learning, stimulating change to drive positive impact. Find out more about working at RMIT University, what we stand for and why we are an Employer of Choice.We want to attract those who will make a difference. View RMIT's impressive standings in university rankings.https://www.rmit.edu.au/about/facts-figures/reputation-and-rankingsBring Your Whole Self to WorkWe are better for our diversity. When we listen to those who are different to us, or challenge us, we grow stronger together. When we feel like we belong, we can achieve so much more. We respect each other, embrace our differences and build a sense of belonging in our team and beyond.We are proud that our dedication to diversity has been recognised by a broad spectrum of external organisations. Visit our Linkedin Life pages to learn more and see some of our most recent wins.RMIT has a strong dhumbali (commitment) to the employment, development and retention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within a culturally safe environment; we strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.At RMIT, we are committed to supporting adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, as well as during employment. We actively support and encourage people with disability to apply to RMIT. To discuss adjustment requirements, please contact Dani (Senior Talent Advisor), via talentsupport@rmit.edu.au or visit our Careers page for more contact information - https://www.rmit.edu.au/careersRMIT is an equal opportunity employer committed to being a child safe organisation. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community and we strongly encourage applications from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.We are a Circle Back Initiative Employer - we commit to respond to every applicant.

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. Key Responsibilities Participate in and manage the research project with Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI and the research team members to ensure all project deliverables are met. Perform materials characterisation and microstructural analysis, including but not limited to: X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) X-ray Diffraction (XRD) Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) Isothermal calorimetry Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) Evaluation of strength development and hydration behaviour Durability performance and long-term behaviour. Carry out Risk Assessment, and ensure compliance with Work, Safety and Health Regulations. Coordinate procurement and liaison with vendors/suppliers. The employee is to communicate with any relevant internal or external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Work independently, as well as within a team, to ensure proper operation and maintenance of equipment. Any adhoc duties assigned. Job Requirements Master’s degree in Materials Science (Cement and Concrete), Civil Engineering, or a related discipline. Demonstrated knowledge and competence in cementitious materials and concrete characterisation, especially for Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC³) and Carbonated Steel Slag Cement. Familiarity with cement chemistry and hydration mechanisms will be an advantage. Key Competencies Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. A self-directed learner with a strong commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Strong technical writing and presentation skills. Excellent analytical and critical thinking abilities. High level of initiative, responsibility, and ownership of work. Ability to work effectively both independently and within multidisciplinary research teams.

Job Purpose The Professional Officers Division (POD) houses a centralized pool of academic staff under the Professional Officers scheme. Professional Officers come with specialised and deep technical skills acquired through extensive industry experience. They form the talent pool which brings a much-needed industry perspective to student learning. They facilitate applied learning and applied research in SIT, complementing the academic expertise of the faculty to bring industry practices and applications into the curriculum. Professional Officers leverage on their industry experiences to create authentic learning environments, where discovery and innovation take place. They act as coaches and mentors to students during practical learning activities such as laboratory sessions, Capstone Projects and the Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP). Professional Officers could also lead or work with faculty on industry innovation projects to provide solutions to the industry. In addition to their role in applied learning and applied research, Professional Officers manage the centralised laboratory facilities and resources in SIT. With Technical Officers, laboratory safety professionals, and administrators in POD, they jointly develop central policies and processes for the safe and seamless operation of laboratories in SIT. Key Responsibilities Design and teach labs & practice modules. Mentor students in Capstone Projects and the Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP). Lead or co-lead innovation projects with industry. Manage labs and equipment to support academic programmes and applied research. Ensure safety in labs. Job Requirements A good degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field. Masters, PhD and/or relevant professional certifications would be advantageous. Track record in project leadership and impactful industry experience in Chemical Process Technology. Deep technical specialist with 10 or more years of working experience in unit operations (e.g. Heat Exchanger, Distillation Column, Reactors, Cooling Tower etc). Practical knowledge of Quality Management Systems and Engineering standards including but not limited to ISO9001, OSHA and BSI etc. Practiced in Chemical Process Design software (for e.g. HYSYS) Proficiency in analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-OES, ICP-MS, and related methods, with a focus on biopharmaceutical analysis would be an advantage. Strong supervisory skills and enjoy working closely with students in an educational environment. Demonstrate proficiency to keep abreast of development in the field and pursue professional certification programs. Possess industrial certifications in relevant areas will be an added advantage.