Research Assistant jobs

• Fixed Term, full-time appointment (2 years)
• Level A: $97,061 - $113,715 + 15% superannuation
• Based at the Wollongong campus

The Opportunity

The University of Wollongong’s Pyrometallurgical Research Group is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to contribute to an industry-linked sustainability project, Australian Pilbara Iron Ores in an Electric Smelting Furnace Process , along with associated PYRO group initiatives. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable iron and steelmaking, with direct impact on Australia’s transition to low-carbon metals production.

The Associate Research Fellow will be responsible for conducting research related to a new proposed iron/steelmaking route with specific focus on direct reduction of iron ores using hydrogen-rich gases and the melting behaviour of direct reduced iron for high temperature processing. The fellow will be involved in planning, experimentation, data analysis, student supervision, report writing and the communication of results to industry and through peer-reviewed journal articles.

The following attributes will be essential to making this role a success:

• Demonstrated understanding of the fundamentals of smelting and reduction of iron ores
• Significant experience of high temperature experimental methodology development
• Experienced user with thorough knowledge of SEM-EDS and XRD
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative team environment
• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills in English, as evidenced by strong publication track record relative to opportunity
• PhD in metallurgy or materials science/engineering or equivalent

How to Apply

Applicants should submit a cover letter detailing relevant experience with reference to the selection criteria; CV with names and addresses of two referees; and Academic transcripts.

For further information regarding this opportunity, please contact Xuefeng Dong xuefeng@uow.edu.au or Ray Longbottom rayl@uow.edu.au

Closing date: Sunday 4 January 2026, 11:55pm

The University of Wollongong is committed to workplace equity, diversity, and inclusion. We value and acknowledge the importance of our people’s diverse experiences, talents, and cultures that they bring to work with them each day. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of attracting and retaining talent in our workforce. The creation of a diverse and inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential, enhance our success, and achieving our vision of being in the Top 1% of universities globally.