• A highly technical postdoctoral engineering role focused on rock mechanics, modelling, and AI-driven drilling innovation.
• Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for two years
• Base salary range: Level A/8, $112,371 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The School of Engineering at The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a multidisciplinary school that delivers world-class education and research across various engineering disciplines, including biomedical, civil, environmental, mining, chemical, mechanical, electrical and electronic, and automation and robotics.

The School has a dedicated team of teaching and research academics who contribute to both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Our research spans a wide range of engineering fields, with strong industry collaborations that drive real-world impact.

You will be working with the Chief Investigators.

About the opportunity

• Deliver an ARC-funded research project focused on developing environmentally friendly drilling technology through experimental, computational, and applied engineering methods.
• Conduct advanced research activities including laboratory experiments, numerical modelling (FEM/CFD), and development of AI models to optimise drilling processes.
• Translate research into outcomes by building prototypes, validating models, and publishing high-quality research outputs in peer-reviewed journals

About you

• PhD in an academic field relevant to the discipline.

• Demonstrated knowledge, confirmed by publications in the advanced concepts of mechanics of solids, fracture mechanics, thermodynamics and computational methods in application to geomaterials and computational fluid dynamics.

• Experience in programming, as well as the physical and numerical modelling including the finite element modelling, confirmed by publications.
• Experience, confirmed by publications in conducting laboratory experiments and testing, including design of additional loading devices necessary for conducting the experiments.
• Experience in designing and manufacturing demo prototypes.
• Experience in developing AI models for real time optimisation.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.

Position description: PD [Postdoctoral Research Associate] [523342].pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Winthrop Professor Arcady Dyskin at arcady.dyskin@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Tuesday 16 June 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.