The Opportunity

The Flow Noise Group in the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering is seeking a Research Associate in Aeroacoustics to join a growing team advancing the understanding of flow‑induced noise. This role supports a newly awarded ARC Discovery Project investigating the noise mechanisms of ducted propellers operating in complex flow environments. You’ll contribute to high‑impact experimental aeroacoustics research, work closely with leading academics including Professor Con Doolan, and help drive new insights into turbulence, noise generation, and next‑generation propulsion technologies.

This position will give you the opportunity to develop your research skills and output by contributing to the writing of scientific papers and reports for international journals, participating in conferences and workshops, assisting in the supervision of research students, and actively engaging with industry partners.

The role reports to Professor Con Doolan and has no direct reports.

• Salary (Level A) – AUD $113,911 to $121,838 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full time
• Fixed-term contract – 2.5 years
• Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

About us

UNSW is a world‑leading institution recognised for its scale, prestige, and impact. With strong industry engagement and partnerships across sectors, UNSW provides a unique environment where academic expertise translates into real‑world outcomes. The university is home to cutting‑edge research that drives innovation and societal progress, while its excellence in teaching ensures students are prepared to lead in their fields. For academics, UNSW offers an outstanding platform to flourish — combining world‑class facilities, collaborative networks, and a culture of innovation that supports both career growth and meaningful contributions to the wider community.

The School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering that is internationally recognised for its excellence in research and teaching. Our mission is to nurture students to become industry leaders who will generate societal, economic, and environmental benefits. The School is one of the largest and most prestigious schools Australia for thriving research programs and contribution to education excellence in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, Robotics and Mechatronic Engineering. Our Schools QS ranking for 2025 is #46 globally and the highest in Australia. For further information on our school, go to - https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/mechanical-and-manufacturing-engineering

The Flow Noise Group is a leading research team advancing the science of flow‑induced noise, aeroacoustics, and turbulent flow physics. Our work integrates advanced experimentation, modelling, and noise‑control strategies across systems such as airfoils, ducted propellers, drones, and wind‑energy devices. With strong academic and industry partnerships, our group tackles fundamental and applied challenges in how unsteady flows generate sound and how that sound can be predicted or reduced. For more information please visit - https://www.unsw.edu.au/research/flownoise

Skills & Experience

• A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience
• Experience in experimental aeroacoustics, turbulence measurements and/or wind tunnel testing.
• Experience in high-speed data acquisition and signal processing
• Desirable but not essential to have experience in the development of analytical or theoretical aeroacoustic models
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills
• 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

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW.

Pre-Employment Checks
Aligned with UNSW’s focus on cultivating a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

These pre-employment checks may include a combination of some of the following checks:

• National and International Criminal history checks
• Entitlement to work and ID checks
• Working With Children Checks
• Completion of a Gender-Based Violence Prevention Declaration
• Verification of relevant qualifications
• Verification of relevant professional membership
• Employment history and reference checks
• Financial responsibility assessments/checks.
• Medical Checks and Assessments

Compliance with the necessary combination of these checks is a condition of employment at UNSW.

To Apply: 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.

Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Contact:

For role-specific inquiries, please contact Prof Con Doolan

E: c.doolan@unsw.edu.au

For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Eugene Aves (Talent Acquisition Partner)

E: eugene.aves@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Tuesday 7 April 2026

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.