Research Officer

• 0.2 FTE Part-time, 1 Year Fixed-term position at HEW Level 6.
• Penrith campus with flexible working arrangements.
• Salary: $97,693 – $104,713 per annum, plus 17% Super and Leave Loading (Pro-rata).

Support applied timber engineering research focused on residential construction and industry outcomes.

The Opportunity
You will support an Australian Forest and Wood Institute funded research project focused on the use of timber in residential construction, with a specific emphasis on noggings in timber engineering. The role contributes across the full research lifecycle, from experimental studies through to data analysis and scholarly outputs.

You will undertake independent research activities within an agreed project scope, applying advanced disciplinary knowledge to deliver research outcomes efficiently and to a high standard. This includes developing, managing and interpreting research data for dissemination through refereed journal articles, conference papers and technical reports.

You will also contribute to project coordination and administration, engaging with academic and industry partners, maintaining accurate research records, and supporting the broader research culture of the School of Engineering through collaboration, seminars and scholarly activities.

What Success Looks Like:

• High-quality research outputs delivered in line with project milestones.
• Peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers submitted and published.
• Research data accurately collected, analysed and documented.
• Effective collaboration with academic staff, students and industry partners.
• Professional representation of the project in meetings and research forums.

Please refer to the Position Description for full details.

About You

• Tertiary qualifications in structural engineering, preferably a PhD in timber structures or residential timber framing.
• Demonstrated experience conducting research with a strong publication record in residential timber construction.
• Advanced understanding of experimental design, research methodology and data analysis, including finite element analysis.
• Proven ability to undertake independent research and exercise initiative and judgement.
• Strong capability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research environment.

Benefits
We invest in the people who make our mission possible. Alongside a rewarding career, we offer a range of benefits designed to support your financial, personal and family wellbeing.

• Financial benefits: Access to staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, salary sacrifice options for onsite parking, and novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Health and wellbeing support: Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP), complimentary annual flu vaccination, eligibility for Fitness Passport membership, and access to discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare: Long day care and early learning services operate at our Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith campuses. Staff may be eligible for discounted fees and salary packaging, with places subject to centre capacity.

Application Details

• Position Enquiries: Direct to Fidelis Mashiri, Associate Professor, Civil Engineering via F.Mashiri@westernsydney.edu.au. Please include the job reference code REF1312A.
• Closing Date: 11:59pm, Sunday 24 May 2026.
• Working Rights: You must provide evidence of full-time working rights in Australia at application.
• How to Apply: Please note that only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered. As part of your online application, you will be asked to respond to screening questions addressing the key qualifications, experiences and skills required for this position.

Belonging at Western
We are committed to substantive equality as outlined in our Equal Opportunity Policy. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, candidates of all gender identities and expressions, people of all abilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

For Reasonable Adjustments during the application process, please contact talentacquisitionteam@westernsydney.edu.au.

About Western
This is your opportunity to be part of something bigger. By joining Western Sydney University, you become a valued member of our community. As our region changes, so too does our university. Western is boldly different, energetic, global, diverse, dynamic, and youthful.

Our mission is to deliver student success, impactful research, and stronger communities. As part of our team, you will have a stake in shaping the future of education, broadening horizons, and changing lives. Making a difference starts at Western.

For the latest please visit our website and LinkedIn.