Research Associate / Senior Research Associate In Silicon Photovoltaic Systems

The Opportunity

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) has an opportunity for a Research Associate or Senior Research Associate. In this role you will be working on the ARENA-funded “Optimal O&M-strategy and LCOE-modelling for ground-mounted PV” project. Your role will focus on either (1) environmental factors related to operations and maintenance of large photovoltaic systems or (2) first principle physics (e.g., optical, semiconductor, thermal) modelling of large photovoltaic systems. This role will allow you to develop your scholarly research and professional activities nationally and internationally through contributing to the writing of scientific papers and reports for international journals, participating in conferences and workshops, and actively engaging with industry partners.

This role will report to Prof Bram Hoex and has no direct reports.

• Salary:
  • Level A, Research Associate – $100,318 to $107,299 per annum + 17% superannuation
  • Level B, Senior Research Associate – $112,679 to $132,832 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full time
• Fixed-term contract – Initial 12 months with view for an additional 24 months
• Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

About UNSW

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn’t only what we do, it’s how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

This position is within the School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) that is internationally recognised for its record-breaking research in solar power (photovoltaics) and renewable energy. The PERC solar cell was invented at UNSW in our labs in 1983, and today powers more than 85% of all new solar panel modules all over the world. SPREE’s work and people have changed the face of sustainable energy on the global stage, and we continue to be at the forefront of leading-edge research and development in the field of renewable technology as our economies transition away from fossil fuels.

For more information, please follow the below links:

https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/our-schools/photovoltaic-and-renewable-energy-engineering

https://arena.gov.au/projects/optimal-om-strategy-and-lcoe-modelling-for-ground-mounted-pv/

https://unswhoexgroup.com/

Skills & Experience:

Level A, Research Associate

• A PhD (or soon to be awarded) in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience. 
• Relevant experience in one or more (preferentially) of the following:
  • Silicon solar cell/module/system electrical modelling
  • Silicon solar cell/module/system optical modelling.
  • Silicon solar cell/module/system thermal modelling.
  • Silicon solar cell/module/system characterisation, yield and failure analysis.
  • Computational fluid dynamics, in particular, about heat transfer.
  • Cost and financial modelling.
  • Environmental factors preferentially related to operations and maintenance of large photovoltaic systems (such as management of vegation with a low environmental impact).
• A practice of maintaining an open-source code repository.
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high-quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training

Level B, Senior Research Associate

• A PhD in a related discipline, and/or relevant work experience. 
• Relevant experience in one or more (preferentially) of the following:
  • Silicon solar cell/module/system electrical modelling
  • Silicon solar cell/module/system optical modelling.
  • Silicon solar cell/module/system thermal modelling.
  • Silicon solar cell/module/system characterisation, yield and failure analysis.
  • Computational fluid dynamics, in particular, about heat transfer.
  • Cost and financial modelling.
  • Environmental factors preferentially related to operations and maintenance of large photovoltaic systems (such as management of vegation with a low environmental impact).
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated excellent track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact with clear evidence of the desire and ability to continually achieve research excellence as well as the capacity for research leadership.
• A track record of significant involvement with the profession and/or industry.
• Strong practice of maintaining an open-source code repository.
• High-level communication skills and ability to network effectively and interact with a diverse range of students and staff.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Ability to build effective networks with colleagues and generate alternative funding and/or industry projects through effective liaison with external local and international researchers, industry and government
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description.

To Apply: Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed above in your application.

Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Contact:

Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant

E: [email protected]

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Monday, 24th April 2023

UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.