About the Role
Swinburne University of Technology, in collaboration with CSIRO, DMTC and the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), is offering an exciting chance for a PhD student to contribute to cutting‑edge research in applied nuclear physics. This project aims to develop a fast computational tool for radiation transport modelling, supporting applications in emergency response, environmental protection and national security. The research outcomes will directly benefit first responders and agencies dealing with nuclear and radiological hazards by improving planning and operational capabilities.
The PhD student will work under the supervision of Associate Professor Jeremy Brown within the Optical Sciences Centre at Swinburne, with research conducted across Swinburne, DMTC‑DSTG and CSIRO. This position is based at Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus, with placements at DMTC‑DSTG (Fishermans Bend) and CSIRO (Clayton). Travel between sites is required, with potential for flexible work arrangements.
Approx. $48,071 p.a. (2026 rate) + $13,000 p.a. project expenses (4 years).
About You
- A tertiary degree in computational science, mathematics or physics (Distinction or higher)
- Experience with radiation physics or detector instrumentation
- Skills in computational modelling (e.g., Python, C++, Linux/Unix)
Eligibility Requirements
- Be eligible for Commonwealth security clearance (have Australian citizenship)
- Meet Swinburne’s PhD entry and English language requirements
- Be able to commence in 2026 and enrol full‑time (part‑time by exception)
- Pass required background and security checks
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 Swinburne Talent Acquisition Team on .
Applications Close
Sunday 7 December 2025, at 11.00pm.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Swinburne has become a world‑class university, driving social and economic impacts through science, technology and innovation. We are a dual‑sector university and we are committed 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 +61 3 9214 3550. 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 (general enquiries will not be answered by phone).
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.
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