Job Description

Organisation/Company SWINBURNE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Research Field Chemistry Engineering Researcher Profile Leading Researcher (R4) Application Deadline 16 Sep 2026 - 00:00 (UTC) Country Australia Type of Contract Other Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

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Offer Description

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- Join the Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group at Swinburne University
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- Full-time, fixed-term (3 years) position at our Hawthorn campus
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- Annual stipend $35,000p.a.
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About the Role

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Join Swinburne University of Technology and contribute to the future of hypersonic technologies through an exciting collaborative research project with Australia's Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group.

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This PhD opportunity offers the chance to work at the forefront of advanced materials research, investigating next-generation ultra-high temperature ceramic (UHTC) materials for thermal protection systems used in hypersonic vehicles. You'll also have the unique opportunity to work alongside DST Group researchers, gaining valuable experience in cutting-edge research and testing that supports Australia's advanced defence capabilities.

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About the project

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As a PhD candidate, you'll undertake original research leading to the completion of your thesis. Your work will focus on:

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- Developing and optimising UHTC coating systems for hypersonic applications.
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- Designing coating processes for advanced materials, including refractory metals and carbon-carbon composites.
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- Combining experimental research with computational modelling to support scalable manufacturing.
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- Collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams and contributing to related projects.
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About You

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We're looking for a motivated and curious researcher who is passionate about advanced materials and eager to solve complex engineering challenges.

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To be successful, you'll bring:

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- A background in metallurgy, materials science or a related discipline.
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- Experience in surface engineering, particularly thermal spray coatings.
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- Knowledge of high-temperature testing, computational modelling and composite materials.
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- Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
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- The ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
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- A publication record in peer-reviewed journals is desirable.
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To view the full list of key selection criteria and role responsibilities, please refer to the Position Description.

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Qualifications

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First-class or 2A honours, or a Masters by research in engineering/science.

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About Swinburne University of Technology

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Swinburne's strategy draws upon our understanding of future challenges. We choose to build Swinburne as the prototype of a new and different university – one that is truly of Technology, of Innovation and of Entrepreneurship. We are committed to a differentiated university proposition in education and research.

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OurAd Astra strategy is the cornerstone of Swinburne's bold ambition to lead globally in technology-driven education and research. This strategy positions us to create transformative solutions, empower learners, and partner with industry to thrive in an ever-changing world.

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Applications Close: Wednesday 16 September 2026, at 11.00pm

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Swinburne offers adaptable working options contained in our leave and parenting/carer policies to support work-life balance.

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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

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Swinburne has become a world-class university, driving social and economic impacts through science, technology, and innovation. As a dual-sector university, our vision is for people and technology working together to build a better world.

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Central to our vision is our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We pride ourselves on being an equal opportunity employer focused on attracting, retaining, and developing great talent. We work to remove barriers related to gender identity, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and age.

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Swinburne is proud to be recognised as anAWEI Gold Employer, reflecting our commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where LGBTQIA+ employees, students and communities can thrive.

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We strongly encourage applicants from diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our Moondani Toombadool Centre leads our Indigenous education and culture at Swinburne, guided by community wisdom and leadership.

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We support applicants with disabilities, and reasonable adjustments can be requested at any stage of the recruitment process.

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For reasonable adjustment requests - including accessible formats of the position description, application form, or other documents, please [email protected] or call +61 3 9214 3550. Please note: this phone number is for disability and reasonable adjustment enquiries only. General enquiries about the role can also be emailed to [email protected] .

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Victoria's Commitment to Action: Improving international student employment outcomes.

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As a signatory toVictoria's Commitment to Action , Swinburne seeks to remove barriers to international graduate employment. We welcome and encourage applications from international graduates.

📌 Defence PhD Scholarship in Ultra-High Temperature Ceramic Coating (Victoria)
🏢 Swinburne University Of Technology
📍 Victoria