Research Fellow

• Salary Package: Annual base salary $116,590 - $120,621 (Academic Level A, Step 7–8) plus 17% employer’s superannuation and annual leave loading
• Appointment Type: Full-time, 2-year fixed-term appointment
• Location: Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde
• Faculty: Faculty of Science and Engineering
• School: School of Engineering

An exciting opportunity exists for a talented and motivated Research Fellow to join the NanoTech Laboratory in the School of Engineering at Macquarie University and contribute to an industry-linked project focused on electronic skin, flexible electronics, and nano-engineered sensing technologies.
You will work on the development of flexible and stretchable sensing platforms for pressure, strain, bending, and tactile sensing. The project will involve the design, fabrication, and characterisation of nanostructured sensing materials, flexible and stretchable electrode networks, and sensor arrays capable of detecting pressure, strain, bending, tactile interactions, and environmental stimuli, with applications in wearable technologies, intelligent sensing systems, human–machine interfaces, healthcare monitoring, and soft robotics.
Key responsibilities include:

• Development of flexible and stretchable pressure and strain sensing technologies based on nano-engineered materials
• Design and fabrication of nanostructured sensing materials, flexible electrode networks, and sensor devices, including nanofiber-based and polymer-composite sensing materials employing piezoresistive, piezoelectric, or capacitive sensing mechanisms.
• Electromechanical characterisation of sensing devices under pressure, strain, bending, cyclic loading, and dynamic mechanical deformation
• Optimisation of sensor performance, including sensitivity, response time, hysteresis, durability, stability, and repeatability
• Preparation of high-quality journal publications, conference outputs, project reports, and industry-focused documentation
• Contribution to prototype development, technology translation, and collaborative industry research outcomes
• Provide mentoring and day-to-day supervision of HDR students working on related projects.

About UsThe Faculty of Science and Engineering at Macquarie University brings together world-class research and teaching across engineering, science, technology and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges through interdisciplinary and industry-engaged research. The School of Engineering is a dynamic and growing school with expertise across materials, electronics, energy, robotics, biomedical engineering, telecommunications, and intelligent systems.
How to ApplyTo be considered for this position, apply online, please submit your curriculum vitae and respond to the selection criteria below, attaching your response as a separate document.
Essential

• A PhD in materials engineering, textile engineering, nanotechnology, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in electronic skin, pressure and strain sensing technologies, flexible electronics, wearable sensors, or related device technologies.
• Hands-on experience with materials fabrication techniques such as electrospinning, solution processing, thin-film deposition or coating, printing, patterning and nanocomposite fabrication.
• Experience in electrical, electromechanical and mechanical characterisation of flexible and stretchable sensors, materials, and devices.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse experimental data, troubleshoot device performance, and optimise sensor materials and architectures.
• A strong publication record relative to opportunity, including peer-reviewed journal articles in relevant fields.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare high-quality research outputs.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet project milestones and deadlines.

Desirable

• Experience with electrospun nanofiber-based, piezoresistive, piezoelectric, capacitive, or multimodal pressure and strain sensing platforms.
• Experience mentoring, training, or contributing to the supervision of HDR or research students, and/or working on industry-linked or translational research projects.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering at Macquarie University has a goal to increase the engagement of women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from diverse backgrounds in STEM roles. Applications are considered holistically, and candidates are encouraged to apply even if their experience does not meet each individual selection criterion.
Applications Close: 1 August 2026
International applicants are encouraged to apply, and visa sponsorship may be available for the successful candidate, subject to eligibility.
For role-specific enquiries, please contact Professor Noushin Nasiri, School of Engineering, at noushin.nasiri@mq.edu.au.
Why Join Us?Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.
We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.

• Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
• 17% Superannuation
• Subsidised onsite parking options
• Extensive training and professional development programs
• Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
• Onsite vacation care during school holidays
• Discounted health insurance
• Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
• Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics

Pre-Employment ChecksMacquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.
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