Research fellow in control theory and robotics

Role type: Full-time; Fixed Term for 24 months
Faculty: Engineering and Information Technology
School: Electrical, Mechanical and Infrastructure Engineering
Salary: $110,319 - $114,366 p.a. p.a. plus 17% super

• Drive cutting-edge optimisation and control research / Collaborate across mechanical, electrical and robotics experts
• Apply now to drive impactful optimisation research and grow your academic profile within a collaborative engineering community.

• Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.

The University of Melbourne 
We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more via our website.

Your next career opportunity 
In this Research Fellow role, you will advance model-guided and data-driven optimisation for complex dynamic systems. You will design algorithms, implement them on physical platforms, and contribute to high-impact publications and collaborations. You will work closely with leading mechanical and electrical engineers, supporting graduate researchers and shaping future research directions.

What you will deliver:

• Plan and conduct independent research on model-guided, data-driven optimisation for static and dynamic control systems.
• Develop, analyse and implement optimisation algorithms on physical platforms, documenting rigorous convergence and stability results.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports and peer-reviewed publications, and present findings at national and international forums.
• Supervise and mentor graduate students and research staff, fostering a collaborative, high-performing laboratory environment.
• Contribute to grant development, industry and academic collaborations, and broader departmental engagement and outreach activities.

You may be a great fit if you:

• Hold a PhD in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer and Information Systems, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrate strong research experience in model-guided and data-driven optimisation, including convergence and stability analysis.
• Design and implement optimisation algorithms on real or experimental platforms, integrating theory with practical control applications.
• Maintain an emerging track record of quality publications in leading journals and conferences, relative to opportunity.
• Communicate complex research concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences, both in writing and verbally.
• Work independently, manage competing priorities, and collaborate effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.

What we offer you! 
We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including:

• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being

• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance

• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance

• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

For more information check out our benefits page!

Your new team
You will join the School of Electrical, Mechanical and Infrastructure Engineering, a vibrant hub for world-class engineering research. Working within FEIT, you will collaborate across mechanical, electrical and robotics groups, tackling real-world control and optimisation challenges. You will benefit from strong industry links, modern facilities, and a collegial, inclusive culture that supports career development.

Be Yourself 
The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where all individuals feel valued, respected, and have the opportunity to thrive regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, age, being a parent or having caring responsibilities.

The University of Melbourne is committed to fostering a barrier-free and inclusive recruitment process. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates throughout the application and interview stages, including accessible document formats and alternative application methods.  To discuss your specific requirements, please feel free to contact Bec Tucker – 0416 888 299 or send an email titled 'Reasonable Adjustments' to [email protected].  You can find more information for applicants requiring reasonable adjustments on our Careers website: https://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants 
We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Our Indigenous strategy, Murmuk Djerring outlines our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students.

Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with "Korin-Korin" our Indigenous Employment & Development team at [email protected] for further information and support.

A Working with Children Check (WWCC) is required for all positions. If successful, we'll guide you through the WWCC application process during onboarding and reimburse the cost.

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires current valid work rights for Australia.

Join Us and unlock your career potential! 
Is this the perfect opportunity for you? Apply today! Including the following documents:

• Resume

• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience

• The responses against the Selection Criteria^ (found in the Position Description)

^For information to help you with compiling short statements to answer the selection criteria and competencies, please go to http://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/selection-criteria

If you have any questions regarding the recruitment process, please feel free to contact Brett Verity via email at [email protected], ensuring that you include the Position Number and the Job Title as the subject. Please do not share your application to this email address.

If you have any particular questions regarding the job please follow the details listed on the Position Description.

Accessible Position Description: 
JR-010832 Research fellow in control theory and robotics PD.docx
JR-010832 Research fellow in control theory and robotics PD.pdf