Job Description

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is seeking a Research Associate to join the Institute for Climate Risk and Response (ICRR) in Sydney, Australia. This interdisciplinary institute bridges the gap between the Faculties of Science, Business, and Law & Justice to address the critical challenges of climate change.

As a Research Associate, you will be at the forefront of climate leadership, conducting high-impact research that informs risk management frameworks for business and government. You will work under the guidance of world-leading experts to create scholarly output that shapes policy and robust planning in the Asia-Pacific region.

Key Responsibilities

Collaborative Research: Contribute to or lead projects in key ICRR areas (e.g., climate science, behavioral economics, or public policy).
Scholarly Output: Conduct research and produce high-quality publications recognized by international peers.
Methodology: Execute discipline-appropriate activities, including surveys, literature reviews, and advanced data gathering.
Knowledge Dissemination: Present findings at international conferences and workshops to influence a wide range of stakeholders.
Mentorship: Assist in the supervision of research students, helping to build the next generation of climate leaders.
Safety & Ethics: Adhere strictly to the University’s Code of Conduct and health and safety policies.

Selection Criteria (The Successful Applicant)

PhD Qualification: A completed PhD in a related field (e.g., Economics, Psychology, Business, Public Policy, Climate Science, or Data Science).
Research Independence: A demonstrated ability to conduct high-quality independent research with minimal supervision.
Publication Record: A strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Proven ability to work across different academic faculties and build relationships with industry and government.
Communication Skills: Highly developed interpersonal skills to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Salary and Benefits

Salary Range: $113K – $121K AUD per annum.
Superannuation: A generous 17% employer contribution.
Leave Loading: Annual leave loading included in the total package.
Term: 12-month fixed-term contract (35 hours per week).
Environment: Vibrant campus life at one of Australia’s leading research and teaching universities.

Climate Risk Frameworks

In this role, your research will likely touch upon the core pillars of climate risk assessment used by global policy makers:

Physical Risks: Immediate impacts from extreme weather events (floods, wildfires).
Transition Risks: Economic and policy shifts as society moves toward a low-carbon economy.
Behavioral Responses: How individuals and institutions perceive and react to climate data.

Why UNSW?

UNSW is committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. We provide workplace adjustments for staff living with disabilities and offer flexible work options. We particularly encourage applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent.

Applications Close: March 9th, 2026

To apply for this job please visit uk.linkedin.com.