Research Associate/fellow In Complex Social Networks

• $94,174 – $106,194 per annum plus 17% superannuation
• 3-year full-time position

Job Reference: 1031114
 
Curtin Centre for Optimisation and Decision Science
  
The Curtin Centre for Optimisation and Decision Science conducts high-quality interdisciplinary research focused on data-driven optimisation for real-world applications. The Centre was established in January 2022 and it currently includes 16 full-time staff whose expertise spans operations research, process control, computational modelling, and data science. The Centre works with industry and government partners to develop cutting-edge optimisation technology for solving complex planning and decision problems in the mining, agriculture, energy, and defence sectors. Current areas of focus include maintenance planning and scheduling, rostering optimisation, misinformation in online social networks, and optimising chemical production processes.
  
Your new role
  
You will conduct high-quality fundamental research on complex social networks with other members of the centre and take the lead in publishing your work in top international journals. You will also participate in collaborative multidisciplinary projects with researchers from engineering, psychology, and sociology, and government partners, as well as contribute to other activities such as preparing proposals for research funding, supervising honours and PhD students, and teaching at undergraduate or graduate level where required.
  
Some of the potential research topics for this position include:  

• Mathematical modelling of misinformation spread in networks;
• Agent-based modelling of online conversation threads and network structure analysis based on social media data;
• Parametrisation and validation of mathematical models of social networks using experimental and observational data; and
• Modelling, analysis, and control of complex network dynamics.

You will be provided with career development and mentoring opportunities as part of a young, dynamic research group. Come join us and help build an exciting future for the new Curtin Centre for Optimisation and Decision Science.
  
This position may involve research where the ability to successfully apply for an Australian security clearance would be highly beneficial. As such, applicants are required to disclose all citizenships as part of the selection process, and this may be considered relevant to selection.
  
To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Dr Mengbin Ye, Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Optimisation and Decision Science on either [email protected] or +61 08 9266 5739.
 
About us
  
Curtin University offers a competitive remuneration and benefits package, a friendly and collaborative work environment, generous leave entitlements and superannuation, flexible working arrangements, and salary-packaging. Our vibrant campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, and endless food options including a supermarket.
  
For more information about our university, please visit www.curtin.edu.au
  
Join us!
  
To view a copy of the Academic Role Statement, please copy and paste the following link into your web browser.
  
https://cloudstor.aarnet.edu.au/plus/s/ykMuqSQDGheSJxT
  
Please provide a cover letter, your CV and separate document addressing the selection criteria (noted below) to allow us to assess your suitability for this role.
  
Selection criteria: 

• A doctoral qualification in applied mathematics, engineering, computer science, or related areas.
• A track record of publications in high-quality international journals in systems and control, complex networks, network science, computational social science, or similar areas.
• A strong theoretical background in relevant areas such as dynamical systems theory, control theory, and agent-based and computational modelling.
• Excellent computing skills and experience working with relevant programming languages and platforms – for example, Python, R, MATLAB.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Interest in applied research and engaging with external stakeholders in demand-driven research.

Applications close: 9PM Australian Western Standard Time (AWST), Tuesday 11th April 2023
  
Applicants should note that prior to appointment, you will need to have a current National Police Records check, undergo character, integrity, and reference checks. Please note that this position may be subject to a WA state government vaccination mandate. If requested, you will be required to provide evidence of your vaccination status prior to employment.
  
If you have any queries in relation to this application process, please contact our careers team on 08 9266 9000 (option 3,1).

Please note we are not accepting applications from recruitment agencies at this time.