Location: UNSW Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Research Associate/Senior Research Associate (Formal Methods)
Role within the Trustworthy Systems (TS) Research Group, based in the School of Computer Science and Engineering. The group leads world‑leading research on software systems that can be mathematically proven trustworthy. As a Research Associate or Senior Research Associate you will:
Responsibilities
* Contribute to a range of research activities, including the development of proof techniques for systems software and their application to the verification of real‑world software systems.
* Play a key role in the group's PISTIs‑V project, working on connecting correctness proofs of user‑mode components to the seL4 specification, compositional reasoning for system‑level properties, formalising security policies and their enforcement, and developing reasoning frameworks for timeliness in mixed‑criticality systems.
* Develop research skills and output by contributing to scientific papers and reports for international journals, participating in conferences and workshops, assisting in supervision of research students, and engaging with industry partners.
Qualifications
Research Associate (Level A)
* A PhD in computer science or a related discipline with focus on formal methods (completed or close to completion).
* Experience with interactive theorem proving using Isabelle/HOL, HOL4, Coq or similar, or experience proving security properties with model checkers or SMT solvers.
* Experience with formalisation and formal reasoning about security properties and models (highly desirable).
* Familiarity with current research in formal methods, especially applied to program verification.
* Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
* Demonstrated track record of publications in formal methods.
* Team collaboration and effective relationship building.
* Communication and stakeholder interaction skills.
* Highly developed interpersonal skills, initiative and enthusiasm.
* Commitment to UNSW's aims, objectives and values and relevant policies and guidelines.
* Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to health and safety training.
Senior Research Associate (Level B)
* PhD in computer science or a related discipline with focus on formal methods.
* Experience with interactive theorem proving using Isabelle/HOL, HOL4, Coq or similar, or experience proving security properties with model checkers or SMT solvers.
* Experience with formalisation and formal reasoning about security properties and models (highly desirable).
* Familiarity with current research in formal methods, especially applied to program verification.
* Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision.
* Strong track record of publications and conference presentations.
* Proven ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
* Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
* Demonstrated ability to supervise honours and postgraduate research students.
* Demonstrated track record in research with high‑quality, high‑impact outcomes and evidence of research excellence and leadership potential.
* Significant involvement with the profession and/or industry.
* Commitment to UNSW's aims, objectives and values and relevant policies and guidelines.
* Ability to implement required UNSW health and safety policies and procedures.
Salary and Working Conditions
* Research Associate (Level A) – AUD $110,059 to $117,718 per annum + 17% superannuation.
* Senior Research Associate (Level B, Step 1) – AUD $127,947 per annum + 17% superannuation.
* Full time, fixed‑term contract – 2 years.
* Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia.
How 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 within the position description in your application.
Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.
Contact – Eugene Aves, Talent Acquisition Consultant
E:
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 18 January 2026.
Equal Opportunity
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.
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