Research Associate - Free Space Optical Communications

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research in free-space optical communication optimized for maritime environments
• Conduct technical work including laboratory experiments and hardware development
• Perform software and algorithm development
• Assist with maritime and airborne field trials
• Collaborate with project partner organisations across industry, government, and defence

Requirements

• Completed 4 years of tertiary study or equivalent qualifications
• Experience with software, programming, simulation, and algorithm development using Python or MATLAB
• Strong documentation and version control practices using Git
• Ability to work independently, show initiative, and solve problems within a team environment
• Capability to conduct R&D specifically for maritime-optimized free-space optical communication

Benefits

• 17% superannuation
• Flexible working options considered
• 26 weeks paid parental leave (after one year of service)
• 4 weeks annual leave with option to purchase more
• Salary packaging options
• Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses
• Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service

About the Company

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities and is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world. This role sits within the Astrophotonics Group at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), a leading institution developing advanced photonic systems for astronomy, space science, and national security.