Based in the College of Engineering and Information Technology, Mawson Lakes Campus
Full time, fixed term contract available for 3 years
Salary Range: Level A (from step 6 - step 8), $102,024 - $109,307 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)
Work that matters
The School of Civil Engineering and Construction is seeking a highly motivated ARC Grant‐Funded Researcher to contribute to an industry‐linked project developing low‐carbon concrete using calcined halloysite, recycled plastic fibres and AI‐assisted optimisation.
The role will focus on translating polymer and fibre production knowledge into practical concrete technologies, supporting Australia's transition toward lower‐carbon, circular construction materials.
This position will contribute to a nationally significant research program that addresses two critical challenges: reducing the carbon footprint of concrete and repurposing plastic waste into high‐value construction materials.
The outcomes are expected to support recent material development, prototype validation and practical uptake by industry partners.
The team
This role will report to A/Prof Thong Pham and sit within the School of Civil Engineering and Construction in the College of Engineering and Information Technology.
The successful candidate will work with a multidisciplinary team spanning structural engineering, sustainable concrete materials, polymer/plastic fibre technology, AI‐assisted optimisation and industry translation.
The role will involve close engagement with university researchers, HDR students, technical staff and industry partners, including collaborators involved in recycled plastic fibre production and construction applications.
The position is suited to a researcher who can work across both laboratory‐based material development and industry‐focused implementation.
Experience
A PhD in Civil Engineering, Materials Engineering,



Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field, with demonstrated expertise relevant to concrete materials, polymer/plastic fibres, fibre‐reinforced cementitious composites, or sustainable construction materials.
Demonstrated interdisciplinary expertise across polymer/plastic materials and civil engineering applications, including the ability to connect fibre production, surface treatment, mechanical behaviour and concrete performance.
Proven record of high‐quality research outputs, with emphasis on quality, relevance and impact rather than quantity, including publications in reputable journals in areas such as fibre‐reinforced concrete, recycled plastic/polyolefin fibres, polymer‐modified materials, low‐carbon concrete or construction materials.
Demonstrated industry experience or industry‐facing research capability in polymer, plastic or synthetic fibre production, including material processing, fibre manufacturing, product development, patents, or commercial application.
Experience with recycled plastics or recycled plastic fibres will be highly regarded.
Assessment will place greater weight on the quality, relevance and translational value of research outputs than on publication quantity alone.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued.
Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive.
We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
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📌 Arc Grant-Funded Researcher (A) (South Australia)
🏢 Adelaide University
📍 South Australia