The University of Sydney 
Camperdown, Australia Offer Summary
The University of Sydney seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Activity on the Sun and Solar-like Stars for a three-year fixed-term position at its Camperdown Campus. This role focuses on improving understanding of solar flares and coronal mass ejections through theory, data analysis, and computation. Key responsibilities include collaborating with Professor Michael Wheatland, developing modeling methods for active regions, and publishing results in high-impact journals. Candidates must hold a PhD in physics or applied mathematics, demonstrating excellent computational skills, including Python and compiled codes, alongside strong theoretical and analytical abilities. The position offers a base salary between $117,936 and $125,896 plus 17% superannuation. Applicants require experience with astrophysical datasets, publication history, and effective communication skills. Applications close on Sunday, 29 November 2026.
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Project Description
About the opportunity
The Postdoctoral Research Associate in Activity on the Sun and Solar-like stars will use theory, data analysis, and computation to improve our understanding of solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and their counterparts on solar-like stars. Flares and CMEs are the most energetic events in the solar system and are drivers for space weather events which directly affect the Earth. This project will involve developing new and improving existing methods of modelling and analysis of solar active regions, the source regions for flares and CMEs, and applying the results also to stellar flares. The work will involve collaboration with domestic and international researchers.
Your key responsibilities will be to:
About you
Pre-employment checks and declarations
Your employment is conditional upon the successful completion of all pre-employment or background checks required for the role in terms satisfactory to the University. Also, to meet the University’s obligations under the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Eliminate Gender-Based Violence you will be asked to declare if you have been investigated for, or found to engaged in, sexual harm or gender-based violence in the course of previous employment or in a legal process. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.
EEO statement
At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.
How to apply
Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.
For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.
For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Liam Newson and Nicole Feain, Recruitment Operations by email to recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au
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Click to view the Position Description for this role.
Applications Close
Sunday 29 November 2026 11:59 PM
