Research Associate

Research Associate, UNSW Canberra

Employment type:   Fixed-term contract, full-time
Duration: 2 years

Remuneration: Level A6 $118,467 + leave loading + 17% super
Location: UNSW Canberra, ADFA Campus

Work rights required: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Candidates must hold full rights to work in Australia to be considered for this position.

About UNSW Canberra
University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Canberra has multiple locations in the Nation’s Capital.
UNSW Canberra distinguishes itself from other institutions by its commitment to being thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all endeavours. This combined approach is integral to the university's impact and contributes to its recognition as one of the top 20 universities globally, as well as a proud member of Australia's esteemed Group of Eight. Choosing a career at UNSW means embracing an environment where thriving, facing challenges, and engaging in meaningful work are not just encouraged but integral to the university experience. If you seek a career where you can excel and contribute meaningfully, you've found the right place.

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

Why Your Role Matters:
This position is funded by a Australian Research Council Discovery Grant. Situated within the School of Systems and Computing, the Research Associate will be part of research activity in multidisciplinary settings requiring skills in cryptography, machine learning and biometrics. The Research Associate will contribute to the development of research results and their publication in international journals and participate at national and/or international conference/s.

Who You Are (skills and experience): 

• A PhD in Computer Science or Math or a relevant area/discipline that complements the breadth of expertise of the School.
• Candidates with PhD thesis submissions are also welcome. It is expected the PhD degree will be obtained within a short time before the commencement of the job.
• A demonstrated ability to conduct innovative and independent research in the field.
• A record of publications in high-quality journals and/or conferences in the field. Some typical venues include, Crypto, Eurocrypt, CCS, NDSS, IEEE TIFS and IEEE TPAMI.
• A strong background in post-quantum cryptography or applied cryptography. A strong math background in related areas such as coding theory will also be considered.
• Capability of applying deep learning models and willingness to use them for biometrics research required in the project.

Benefits and Culture:
UNSW is committed to helping staff balance work-life responsibilities, by providing access to high-quality services, facilities, and flexible work and leave arrangements.

• Additional three days leave during December festive period
• Career development opportunities 
• Up to 50% discount on UNSW courses
• Flexible 17% superannuation contributions, additional leave-loading payments and salary sacrifice
• Free gym access
• UNSW-wide strategy to focus on Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Healthy Places and Healthy Culture. 

You can learn more about our Benefits and Culture at Lifestyle & Benefits UNSW

Eligibility: 

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Candidates must hold full rights to work in Australia to be considered for this position.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. 

As part of our recruitment process candidates may be required to undergo pre-employment screening, which may include reference checks, qualification verification, right-to-work verification, and criminal history screening where relevant to the role.

How to Apply:

Make each day matter with a meaningful career at UNSW. Submit your application online before Monday 28 September 2026 at 11:30pm, including your CV and a 1–2-page cover letter addressing the required skills and experience outlined in the position description. In order to view the position description, please ensure that you allow pop-ups for https://www.jobs.unsw.edu.au

Get in Touch:

For role-related queries please contact:
Jiankun Hu - Professor
**********@unsw.edu.au

For recruitment process-related queries please contact:
Holly Whale – Talent Acquisition Partner
*******@unsw.edu.au

Applications cannot be accepted if sent directly to the contact listed.

Find out more about the lifestyle and benefits when working with UNSW  

For further information about UNSW Canberra, please visit: UNSW Canberra 
For further information on living in Canberra, please visit: Living in Canberra

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.