PRIMARY DETAIL
- Salary package: $123,435to $146,044 (ACA B.1 – B.6) plus 17% employer's superannuation contribution and annual leave loading.
- Full-time, fixed term role for 2.5 years
- Based at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde
The Role
We are seeking an industry-facing researcher to make an impact in space LiDAR, in conjunction with our commercial partner Spiral Blue.
This project is a collaboration between the MQ Photonics Research Centre and commercial partner Spiral Blue, funded by the CRC-P grant "In orbit demonstration of an AI-enabled LiDAR multisensor system". The project will develop, test, and launch space-to-space and space-to-Earth LiDAR systems, with the end goal to deploy a space-to-Earth LiDAR system for monitoring of tree canopies.
This postdoctoral position will be heavily industry focussed, working closely with the Spiral Blue staff, along with another Macquarie University postdoc and the academic team of Prof. David Spence and A. Prof. James Downes. The position will suit a candidate who is looking for experience of industry engagement, and will have a focus on generating impact with our industry partner, and creating new intellectual property and innovations in the emerging field of space LiDAR.
About Us
The Faculty of Science and Engineering is a young and dynamic faculty driven by the spirit of discovery. Here we nurture the next generation of science and technology innovators. From a handful of students on the University's first day, the Faculty now serves nearly 6000 students across all our programs.
The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is an inclusive community in scientific collaboration. Mathematics and statistics drive breakthroughs in technology and data science, while physics and astronomy seek to understand matter and the Universe - everything from quarks to galaxy clusters. We collaborate closely with local, national, and international organisations and companies across the diverse mathematical and physical sciences fields. Further information about our school is available here.
The position is based in the MQ Photonics Research Centre that brings together approximately 30 academics researching in areas as diverse as nonlinear optics, quantum photonics, astrophotonics and nanophotonics. The Centre offers a mentoring program for early career researchers while providing opportunities to hone other skills such as outreach, industry engagement, and building international networks. It promotes diversity in all aspects as a way to enhance innovation, outcomes and productivity. Along with other initiatives, the University provides grants to support our members with caring / family responsibilities to participate in professional activities.
To Apply
To be considered for this position, please apply online and attach your CV and a separate cover letter (no more than 2 pages) that addresses the selection criteria below.
Essential
* A PhD in physics, engineering, or a related discipline.
* Citizen or permanent resident of Australia, or citizen of New Zealand, Canada, USA, UK, Europe, or Japan.
* Experience in laser and optics, and/or electronics design and prototyping
* Ability to undertake original experimental research, as evidenced by impactful academic outputs or positive outcomes in an industry setting.
* Demonstrated capacity to work independently and as part of a team.
* Excellent oral and written communication skills.
* Ability for analytical thinking and independent problem solving.
Desirable
* Experience in aspects of LiDAR design and construction.
* Track record of working with technologies at TRL 4 – 6.
* Knowledge or experience of research for commercial use cases.
To be considered for this position, the successful candidate must be a Citizen or permanent resident of Australia, or citizen of New Zealand, Canada, USA, UK, Europe, or Japan
Enquiries: Professor David Spence at
Applications Close: Sunday, 18 January 2025 at 11:59pm (AEST)
Why work at Macquarie
We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability.
Our prime location, we are walking distance from Macquarie University Metro Station and Macquarie Shopping Centre. Not only are we close, take a look at our benefits on offer:
* 17% Superannuation
* Subsidised onsite parking options
* Flexible working options
* Training and professional development
* Onsite childcare facilities
* Discounted health insurance (Medibank)
* Onsite vacation care
* Employee Assistance Program
* Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre
* Onsite GP, imaging & physio clinics
If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University,, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.
Applications Close:
18/01/2026 11:59 PM
A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.
Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, visit our Jobs at Macquarie page.