Research Fellow in Nanocrystal Synthesis Full-time

Research Fellow in Nanocrystal Synthesis

Role type: Full-time; Fixed-Term for 12 months Faculty: Faculty of Science Department/ School: School of Chemistry Salary: Level A: $87,266 – $118,416 p.a. plus 17% super (PhD entry level $110,319)

Drive nanocrystal innovation for ultra-low-cost solar PV / Collaborate across chemistry and engineering / Build your independent research profile.

Apply now to advance innovative nanocrystal synthesis for ultra-low-cost solar technologies within a supportive, diverse team.

Investing in you – 17% superannuation, benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.

Your next career opportunity You will lead the synthesis and scale-up of nanocrystals that enable ultra-low-cost solar technologies.

You will collaborate with leading chemists and engineers while developing your independent research profile and leadership skills.

You will also mentor students and contribute to a safe, inclusive and high-performing laboratory environment.

What you will deliver:

• Conduct innovative research on nanocrystal synthesis, scale-up and characterisation aligned with ACAP solar PV objectives.
• Lead daily operations, safety, and maintenance of the materials synthesis laboratory and specialist equipment.
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate and postgraduate researchers, contributing to training, risk assessments and group meetings.
• Collaborate with national ACAP partners, preparing reports, publications and presentations on research progress and outcomes.
• Develop new project ideas and competitive funding applications to build your independent research trajectory.

You may be a great fit if you:

• Hold a PhD in physical chemistry or materials science and engineering, or an equivalent discipline.
• Bring demonstrated experience in nanomaterials synthesis and characterisation, including nanocrystal purification and scale-up.
• Demonstrate a strong publication record and ability to write high-quality reports and journal manuscripts.
• Manage laboratory-based projects safely, including equipment upkeep, OH&S compliance and risk assessment approval processes.
• Collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams and engage with industry or professional stakeholders on joint projects.
• Show potential to develop independent research directions, secure funding and supervise or mentor student researchers.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.

What we offer you! We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfilment, including:

• Build future financial security with 17% superannuation
• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
• Career development opportunities, including access to a range of tailored programs, such as Academic Women in Leadership, and learning platforms including LinkedIn Learning
• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance and well-being, including leading parental leave, gender affirmation leave and cultural leave, and menstruation and menopause leave
• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance, and access to unique cultural and recreational benefits such as discounts for the Melbourne Theatre Company
• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

For more information check out our benefits page!

Your new team – School of Chemistry Based in the School of Chemistry within the Faculty of Science, you will join a collegial community. You will work closely with the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics node and interdisciplinary engineering collaborators. Our shared focus is advancing renewable energy technologies while fostering diversity, inclusion, professional development and research excellence.

Be Yourself The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. The diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Discover more about Diversity and Inclusion at UniMelb.

We're committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities. Learn more about how we support an accessible recruitment process.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Visit our Indigenous staff page to learn more about our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with our Indigenous Employment & Development team at korin-korin@unimelb.edu.au.

Application essentials:

• Visit “apply with us” to learn more about the process, including tips and FAQs.
• You must have current valid work rights for Australia. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
• A Working with Children Check is required for all positions. If successful, we will guide you through the process and reimburse you.
• Please upload your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest and experience as part of the application process.
• Please upload your responses to the Selection Criteria, found in the Position Description. Learn more about responding to Selection Criteria

Want to know more?

• For queries related to this specific position, contact Associate Professor Wallace Wong at wwhwong@unimelb.edu.au
• For questions related to our recruitment process email Oliver Bukasa at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au
• For recruitment adjustments contact Kim Groizard on +61 3 9035 3218 or at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments').

Apply today and join a community that's shaping the future.

Applications close: 29 October 2026 at 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.