• Unique opportunity to work in a world-leading laboratory operating the only geotechnical centrifuges in Australia.
• Train researchers and drive safe, cutting-edge facility operations.
• Full-time appointment on an ongoing basis.
• Base salary range: $108,413 – $120,287 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The Centre for Offshore Foundation Systems hosts the National Geotechnical Centrifuge Facility (NGCF), a world leading geotechnical centrifuge modelling facility working on a wide range of offshore geotechnical problems. The NGCF has three centrifuges: a 3.6 m diameter beam centrifuge and a 1.2 m drum centrifuge and a 10 m diameter beam centrifuge located in the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre. The appointee will work alongside other research officers as part of a larger technical support team that includes electronic, software and mechanical engineers.

About the opportunity

• Design, run, and maintain centrifuge experiments, providing technical support from project planning through to testing, data processing, and interpretation.
• Train and supervise laboratory users on equipment, instrumentation, data acquisition systems, motion control systems, and physical modelling techniques.
• Support the safe and efficient operation of the NGCF facility, including project coordination, equipment prioritisation, health and safety compliance, stakeholder engagement, and business development activities.

About you

• Trade or technical qualifications or diploma with extensive relevant experience; or extensive experience and demonstrated management expertise in a technical field; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education/training.
• Experience in geotechnical physical modelling in a research environment.
• Strong understanding of the fundamentals of soil mechanics, sensor technology, motion control systems and data acquisition.
• Demonstrated capability in data processing and analysis and communication of test results to users.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. Occasional weekend work, offsite monitoring, and flexibility with start and finish times may be required by the successful applicant.

Position description:  PD [Senior Research Officer] [523965].pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Conleth O’Loughlin at conleth.oloughlin@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Shelby Corrins at shelby.corrins@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Wednesday, 5 August 2026

This position is only open to Current UWA staff.

Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.

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.

Learn more about us.

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.