- Salary package: From $89,579 (ACA Level A.1) to $108,517 (ACA Level A.5) per annum, plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading.
- Employment Type: Full-time, fixed term appointment until September 2027
- Based at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled research associate to contribute to a project in the space of navigation for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This role provides the opportunity to develop both software engineering skills and research expertise in various subareas of Artificial Intelligence (AI) such as computer vision, navigation and planning.

Key responsibilities

- Developing software that can be deployed to UAVs.
- Carrying out research relevant to the above, in particular in the space of AI for UAV navigation.
- Taking part in regular project-related meetings.

About You

You are a rare mix of a software engineer who has expertise in UAVs and/or robotics and someone who has research experience in that AI space and an ability to translate cutting-edge research into application.

About Us

This project is led by the University of Wollongong. At Macquarie University, the work package associated with this position is led by Professor Mark Dras in the School of Computing, within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Professor Dras leads a very active AI research group and has a strong interest in supporting its members enhance their careers.

Role-specific Enquiries

Professor Mark Dras at [email protected]

Applications Close

Applications Close: Sunday 11 October 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (AEST)

Appointment will also be subject to compliance with applicable Defence-related legislation and project security requirements, including Defence Export Controls and Safeguarding Australia’s Military Secrets legislation where relevant.

Applicants must be citizens of a Five Eyes or NATO member country. Applicants with other citizenships may be considered, subject to funder approval being obtained.

Applicants must be able to work within any applicable project confidentiality, contracting and security requirements. The successful candidate will be required to undergo a National Police/ Criminal History Check and a qualification check. An international police/ criminal history check may also be required, depending on the candidate’s circumstances.

Pre-Employment Checks





Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

Why work at Macquarie

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability. Our prime location is just a short walk from Macquarie University Metro Station and Macquarie Shopping Centre.

Enjoy the benefits of working at a campus that offers:

- 17% Superannuation
- Subsidised onsite parking options
- Flexible working options
- Training and professional development
- Onsite childcare facilities
- Discounted health insurance (Medibank)
- Onsite vacation care
- Employee Assistance Program
- Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre
- Onsite GP, imaging & physio clinics

A Place Where You Belong at Macquarie

At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community.

Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.

Flexible Work

At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University.



See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace.

At Macquarie University, our human equation for success is You to the Power of Us. Its an invitation for you to bring your passion and purpose to a campus powered by human collaboration, and where the potential of every person multiplies our ability to achieve remarkable things.

Our Values

Our values Collective Ambition, Purposeful Collaboration, Bold Innovation, and Genuine Care are at the heart of everything we do and by living our values, we unlock the true potential of You to the Power of Us. Our values guide how we work, lead and support one another. We know Macquarie is at its best when we live our values every day.

Fostering Belonging

Our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework 2024-2028 and our Flexible Work approach support Macquarie’s vision by building a community where everyone truly feels safe and like they belong. We acknowledge the richness of each individual’s identity and the potential that brings. This diversity amplifies You to the Power of Us and creates an inclusive environment that leads to better outcomes for all. Through a nurturing and fair environment, we are a workplace that enables you to balance both your personal needs and qualified goals.

What we offer?

- Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
- 17% Superannuation
- Subsidised onsite parking options
- Extensive training and professional development programs
- Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
- Onsite vacation care during school holidays
- Discounted health insurance
- Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
- Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
- Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics

Discover our beautiful campus

Just 15km from Sydney’s CBD and with access to Australia’s only dedicated university metro station, our Wallumattagal Campus in Macquarie Park offers a vibrant and inspiring place to work—right in one of the world’s greatest cities.

Join a workplace that's inclusive, outcome-focused and driven by shared purpose.

Take a look at our campus and see why we are an inclusive and inspiring place to work.

For further information about how the University, collects, uses and discloses personal information about you, refer to the privacy policy.

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📌 Research Associate - Artificial Intelligence and UAV Navigation (New South Wales)
🏢 Macquarie University Hospital
📍 New South Wales