Overview
Position: Research Associate / Senior Research Associate (Level A/B) – Climate at UNSW. This role is based in Sydney, Australia. Fixed term: 3 years. Full-time (35 hours per week). Level A salary: $113k-$121k; Level B: $127k-$150k plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading.
About The Role
The role focuses on developing an artificial intelligence-based foundation model toolbox using historical, global and regional weather and climate data. A general purpose toolbox will be developed with initial testing on climate risks to agriculture across the Asia-Pacific region, with opportunities to explore other climate-change related impacts.
Reports to Professor Andy Pitman; team includes Professors Andy Pitman and Scott Sisson, Dr Anna Ukkola, Elizabeth Vogel, Sanaa Hobeichi and Doug Richardson.
Responsibilities
* Contribute to the technical development of an artificial intelligence-based foundation model toolbox, including data wrangling, code development, evaluation and application.
* Engage in collaborative research with the existing team, leading key components at an internationally competitive level.
* Lead and contribute to significant international publications.
* Establish a personal research portfolio and develop independent research proposals under guidance.
* Support PhD students working on the project.
* Be willing to travel to Canberra for an annual workshop.
* Comply with Code of Conduct and UNSW values; observe health and safety policies.
Qualifications
* Level A: A PhD in Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related field; weather/climate science acceptable with strong technical skills.
* Key skills: advanced Python or C++ with experience developing and fine-tuning foundation models; HPC and multi-GPU programming.
* Knowledge of state-of-the-art AI models; track record in collaborative coding (e.g., GitHub); ability to stay current with discipline developments.
* Strong communication, teamwork and ability to work across disciplines; commitment to UNSW aims, objectives and values; health and safety training.
* Level B: several years post-PhD; experience with foundation models; leadership potential.
Selection and Application
* Address the selection criteria in your application.
* Please apply online; applications submitted to the contact listed will not be accepted.
* Contact: Andy Pitman; E: a.pitman@unsw.edu.au
* Applications close: October 8, 2025.
UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people from diverse backgrounds, those with disabilities, LGBTIQ+ community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments and flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
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