Overview
Based in the College of Engineering and Information Technology, Adelaide City Campus East. Full-time, fixed term position until December 2026. Level A - $81,293 - $109,307 per annum (plus 17% superannuation).
We are seeking an experienced Research Engineer to work on AI driven decision making in the School of Computer Science and Information Technology.
In this role, you will work with our partners Praetorian Aeronautics and their testing team to field test emerging AI agent-based technology and push forward projects of national significance. You will develop state of the art AI-driven decision-making solutions and gain first-hand insights into how AI-driven decision-making systems operate in varied scenarios, contributing to the future direction of critically deployed solutions.
Working with other researchers and engineers in the team, you will share broad goals in decision making in contested and dynamic environments, multi-agent reinforcement learning, planning and secure and robust machine learning solutions.
The ideal candidate will enjoy a blue-sky research focus with a hands-on approach to experimentation alongside strong theoretical underpinnings. A relevant first degree in computer science, engineering or related discipline is essential. You will be a strong team player and able to communicate with investigators and industrial partners.
At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions — because when you thrive, we thrive.
We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it's a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia's future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.
Work that matters
The University's College of Engineering and Information Technology brings together expertise across aviation, computer science, construction management, and the full spectrum of 21st-century engineering disciplines including civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, environmental, and biomedical engineering. With strengths in AI, energy transition technologies, advanced manufacturing, biomedical innovations, and sustainable infrastructure, research is seamlessly integrated into teaching. Students learn in first-class facilities alongside leading researchers and are equipped to drive innovation and tackle the grand challenges of our time.
The team
Our team think boldly, tackle complex challenges, and utilise data-driven insights to create solutions that strengthen communities. Our graduates are innovators and entrepreneurs, designing and building a future that is more sustainable, inclusive, and connected.
Visit the AU website to learn more about the College of Engineering and Information Technology.
Our people
Our people are driven by purpose, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine commitment to lifelong learning. We value authenticity, foster innovation, and work collaboratively, drawing on diverse perspectives in our pursuit of excellence.
This role suits an individual who thrives in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment. You will work alongside a diverse community of colleagues, access state-of-the-art facilities, and contribute to a broad range of research activities — ensuring your work is both engaging and impactful.
Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.
Responsibilities
* Collaborate with researchers and engineers to pursue decision-making research in contested and dynamic environments, multi-agent reinforcement learning, planning and secure and robust machine learning solutions.
* Field test emerging AI agent-based technology with Praetorian Aeronautics and their testing team on projects of national significance.
* Develop state-of-the-art AI-driven decision-making solutions and gain practical understanding of deploying such systems in varied scenarios.
* Contribute to team goals and share expertise across the group and with industrial partners.
Qualifications
* A relevant first degree in computer science, engineering or related discipline is essential.
* PhD in the relevant discipline or equivalent qualifications or research experience.
* Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and development, including leading research in reinforcement learning, planning, optimisation and heuristics in Counter UAS, weapon target assignment problems or similar.
* Strong track record of high-quality publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
* Experience guiding and supervising postgraduate and honours students and research-support staff.
* Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate across disciplines and collaborate with industry.
* High level organisational skills and the ability to prioritise and manage workload in a busy environment and meet deadlines.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Application process
Launch your future with Adelaide University now.
Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:
* Your current CV
* a cover letter that tells us why you're excited about the role
The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.
Submit your application by 11:30pm, Tuesday 24 March 2026.
The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.
Please note that the role description is not attached to this advertisement as it is currently being finalised.
For further information about this opportunity, please contact quoting reference number 492563:
Rachael Cossons
+61 8 8302 1700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au
Appointment is subject to a satisfactory National Police Check (NPC) being obtained and maintained.
Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.
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