About the Role
Are you passionate about ocean-wave physics, underwater acoustics, and coastal engineering? Swinburne University of Technology is seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a dynamic, interdisciplinary research program at the cutting edge of ocean science.
This role will contribute to two Australian Research Council–funded projects:
* ARC Discovery Project (DP : Bubble Clouds in Ocean Waves
* ARC Linkage Project (LP – extension): Controlling Coastlines While Generating Power
Working closely with researchers at Swinburne, partner universities, and industry collaborators, you will investigate the fundamental interactions between bubble dynamics, ocean waves, and underwater acoustics, and explore how wave-energy technologies can protect vulnerable coastlines and support offshore renewable- energy development.
What you'll do
Reporting to the Lead Chief Investigator, you will play a central role in shaping the research direction and delivering high-impact project outcomes. This role is primarily laboratory-focused, with responsibilities including:
* Designing and conducting laboratory experiments on the acoustics of bubble curtains and bubble clouds in wave-dominated flows
* Finalising and publishing research on wave-induced displacement of bubble clouds in high-quality academic journals
* Developing and applying theoretical and mathematical models of wave–bubble interactions
* Performing numerical simulations of infragravity ocean waves, validated against experimental and theoretical data
* Contributing to collaborative research, supervision, and the broader research culture
* Communicating findings effectively to both specialist and general audiences
The successful candidate will be ready to start as soon as practicable to support timely project delivery.
About You
You will hold a PhD in ocean-wave physics or a related discipline (fluid dynamics, applied mathematics, coastal engineering) and have demonstrated expertise in experimental, theoretical, or numerical research on wave-dominated or oscillatory fluid systems. You will thrive in multidisciplinary teams, engage with academic colleagues, industry partners, and students, and have a strong or emerging publication record.
Essential:
* Laboratory experience with waves or oscillating flows
* Ability to collaborate across disciplines and with students
* Track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals
Desirable:
* Experience with underwater acoustics measurements
* Skills in mathematical or computational modelling of wave-related flows
* Background in ocean, coastal, or related engineering fields
* Ability to communicate research findings to diverse audiences
Join a world-class research team tackling real-world challenges in coastal protection, renewable energy, and climate resilience—and help shape the future of ocean science
Qualifications
PhD in ocean-wave physics, or closely related aspects of fluid dynamics or applied mathematics.
About Swinburne University of Technology
Swinburne's strategy draws upon our understanding of future challenges. We choose to build Swinburne as the prototype of a new and different university – one that is truly of Technology, of Innovation and of Entrepreneurship. We are committed to a differentiated university proposition in education and research.
What We Offer You
* Work your way with flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options and generous parental leave to support a balanced lifestyle.
* Exclusive staff discounts, including discounted Medibank health insurance, 50% off Swinburne courses and other partner offers.
* Swinburne offers 17% super and salary packaging options, including car leasing and extra super contributions.
Want to learn more? Head over to our benefits page
To Apply
Please submit your CV and cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria and your suitability for this position. To review the Position Description and to apply, please scroll down to the bottom of the page.
If you are viewing this advert from an external site, please click 'apply' and you will be redirected to Swinburne's Jobs website to access the Position Description at the bottom of the page.
Please Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children Check.
If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application, please contact the Talent Acquisition team at
Applications Close: Sunday 1st February 2026, at 11.00pm (DST)
Swinburne offers flexible working options contained in our leave and parenting/carer policies to support work-life balance.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Swinburne has become a world-class university, driving social and economic impacts through science, technology, and innovation. As a dual-sector university, our vision is for people and technology working together to build a better world.
Central to our vision is our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We pride ourselves on being an equal opportunity employer focused on attracting, retaining, and developing great talent. We work to remove barriers related to gender identity, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and age.
We strongly encourage applicants from diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our Moondani Toombadool Centre leads our Indigenous education and culture at Swinburne, guided by community wisdom and leadership.
We support applicants with disabilities. Adjustments can be requested at any time during the recruitment process. For Reasonable Adjustment requests, including accessible formats for the PD, application form or any other document, please contact or call
Please note the above number and DCR email address are for disability or reasonable adjustments queries only. General enquiries about the role can be sent to the Talent Acquisition team at (general enquiries will not be answered by phone).
Victoria's Commitment to Action: Improving international student employment outcomes.
As a signatory to Victoria's Commitment to Action, Swinburne seeks to remove barriers to international graduate employment. We welcome and encourage applications from international graduates.
As a Circle Back Initiative Employer, we commit to responding to every applicant.