Mechatronics Postdoctoral Researcher

The Role

Australian Astronomical Optics - Macquarie (AAO-MQ) is seeking an outstanding early career academic with a track record in mechatronics and/or instrument science for astronomical instrumentation. The successful applicant will have a key role in a significant instrument research project recently funded by the Australian Research Council.

The mechatronics postdoctoral researcher will be involved in the design, development, and delivery of ground-based optical instruments, with an emphasis on research into novel mechanisms and actuators for optical-fibre positioning systems for future facilities.

The successful candidate will have access to fully equipped mechatronics, robotics, optics and optical fibre laboratories and will be working with a team of highly qualified experts in astronomical instrumentation including optical engineers, mechanical engineers, software engineers, electronics engineers, project managers, and a team of dedicated support staff.

Reporting to the Head of Instrumentation at AAO-MQ, you will:

• Carry out research into instrumentation for astronomy or space-based observations, and to participate in the academic functions of the university.
• Assist AAO-MQ in grant applications where needed to successfully obtain funding.
• Potentially co-supervise undergraduate or postgraduate students.  

The position will be 3 years fixed term, with the possibility of changing to a continuing-contingent position after 2 years (i.e. a continuing position, contingent on the AAO’s ongoing project funding).   The base salary will be from $106,089 to $128,620 AUD per annum (Level A6 to Level B3) plus 17% superannuation.

About You

You will have completed a PhD in mechatronics or instrumentation, or in a closely related discipline. You will have deep and broad experience as a scientist with excellent research skills. You will have a passion and enthusiasm for research and innovation and ensuring that quality outcomes are delivered.  You will be an excellent communicator with a proactive and flexible nature, and you will enjoy working both individually and as part of a larger team.

About Us

Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) at Macquarie University is an international leader in the development of optical instruments for astronomy, with a 40+ year heritage of building instruments for observatories across the globe, including major contracts with Subaru, Gemini, ESO VLT, and GMT.  We are excited to take a significant role in leading and growing Australia’s strength in astronomical instrumentation, partnering with the Australian National University and the University of Sydney under the banner of Astralis Instrumentation Consortium. Our strengths at the AAO include visible and near-infrared spectroscopy, imaging, integral field spectroscopy, fibre optics, fibre positioners, and astrophotonics.

The AAO-MQ works in a matrix structure with close collaboration across all its functional groups. There is a strong emphasis on communities of practice and a shared culture of learning and innovation. As part of our expansive new vision, AAO-MQ’s team of experts will build on the University’s existing strengths in astronomy, photonics, laser technology, microfabrication, applied optics and sensing communications, with the aim of increasing industry engagement, identifying opportunities to apply AAO-MQ’s expertise to medicine and defence, and expanding its presence in the fields of optics and sensing, in addition to the ongoing mission of world-leading excellence in astronomical instrumentation.

The AAO has state-of-the-art facilities including large integration halls, clean rooms, fully equipped optical laboratories, R&D labs, mechanical and electronics workshops. We will soon be moving into new purpose-built premises on Macquarie University campus.

For more information see:

• aao.org.au
• www.mq.edu.au/faculty-of-science-and-engineering/departments-and-schools/australian-astronomical-optics-macquarie

Macquarie University is located in the leafy northern suburbs of Sydney, with excellent public transport links.  The campus features large green open spaces, fantastic campus facilities, such as the Sport and Aquatic Centre and onsite childcare.  Benefits of working at Macquarie University include a well-defined career path, generous leave entitlements, and excellent 17% superannuation contributions.

Role Enquiries: Jon Lawrence, Professor at [email protected]

Applications Close: Friday 14th of March 2025 at 11:59pm (AEST).

We welcome applications from International Applicants.