Jobs and Careers

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

• Advance globally significant AI and thermal engineering research in Tasmania’s uniquely liveable environment
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills
• Full time, fixed‑term (2 years) appointment, based in Hobart

About the opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a cutting-edge ARC-funded project focused on developing a thermal energy management platform in electric vehicles using AI technology. The role aims to advance thermal performance through innovative energy distribution and waste heat recovery strategies. The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will undertake experimental and theoretical research, contribute to HDR supervision, support teaching in mechanical engineering courses, and work collaboratively within a dynamic team advancing sustainable transport and climate-safe engineering.

The successful candidate will bring their expertise in thermal energy management and conversion, particularly in areas such as heat pump, battery energy systems and thermal comfort in electric vehicles. You will bring an enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research and a commitment to fostering a collegial and supportive team research environment. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful research while living in Tasmania – renowned for its exceptional quality of life, stunning natural landscapes, including many National Parks and World Heritage Areas.

Relocation support or visa sponsorship may be considered for the ideal candidate.

What you’ll do:

• Undertake research on Al-based energy management in electric vehicles including heat pump, battery thermal management and waste-heat recovery from power electronics and electric motors, publishing findings in high-quality international peer-reviewed journals, and assist in supervision of PhD and undergraduate research students.
• Lead the development of AI-based energy management platform to coordinate the energy distribution and recovery in real-time driving conditions.
• Participate in collaborative and collegial research as part of a team of inter-disciplinary researchers focused on the renewable energy and power systems.
• Undertake high-quality research/scholarly activities under limited supervision either independently or as a member of a team, publish research findings to meet and regularly exceed the University’s research performance expectations for Level A.
• Undertake scholarly undergraduate coursework teaching of a high quality, including consultation with students, marking and assessment connected with courses taught, production of teaching materials, and development of course material with appropriate guidance from the course or program coordinator in mechanical engineering.

­What we’re looking for:

•  A demonstrated ability and understanding of research in the field of thermal and mechanical engineering, evidenced by a record of quality publications, presentations at conferences and preferably success in securing competitive and other funding, appropriate at this level.
• A record of contributing to building and maintaining effective and productive networks with the discipline, profession, and wider community, including evidence of effective collaborative research contributions. 
• A clear desire and capacity for developing artificial intelligent approaches, preferably with experience in its application to energy management in electric vehicles.
• Experience of working effectively within a team environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with demonstrated experience presenting research findings, and preparing research reports.
• Experience in teaching undergraduate courses in mechanical engineering.

Qualifications

• A PhD or equivalent in thermal and mechanical engineering or a closely related field.

Considering a move to Tasmania to take up this opportunity?

Offering a breath of fresh air, our island State’s wild landscapes, rugged coastlines, distinctive towns, and fascinating history have something for everyone. Tasmania has crafted a unique brand of creativity and adventure such as the world-famous MONA and the exceptional mountain bike tracks of Derby. Our acclaimed fresh food and beverage scene, family-run businesses, and diverse culinary experiences celebrate farm-fresh produce. From our island shores, our research extends to the great Southern Ocean and Antarctic and across the Asia-Pacific. Some funds may be available for relocation or visa sponsorship for the successful candidate.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level A and will have a total remuneration package of up to $125,877 comprising base salary within the range of $83,198 to $107,587 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide the following supporting documentation:
  • Resume
  • Cover letter outlining your suitability and motivation for the role
  • Your responses to the success criteria from the Position Description below
• For further information about this position, please contact Professor Xiaolin Wang, Sciences and Engineering, Xiaolin.Wang@utas.edu.au  
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 PD-502558 - Postoctoral Research Fellow in Thermal Mechanical Enginering.pdf

Applications close Thursday, 30 April 2026, 11.55pm

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks will be conducted as part of the selection process.