Research Associate in Mathematics and Statistics

• One of Australia’s leading research & teaching universities
• Vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community & inclusion
• Enjoy a career that makes a difference by collaborating & learning from the best

At UNSW, we pride ourselves on being a workplace where the best people come to do their best work.

THIS ROLE IS LOCATED IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA.

The School of Mathematics and Statistics currently has more than sixty continuing academic staff and more than thirty research staff as well as visiting academics. UNSW is the only university in Australia to be ranked in the top 100 in the world in Mathematics and Statistics by each of the four ranking bodies: CWTS Leiden, ARWU, USNews, QS.

The Research Associate will undertake collaborative and self-directed research on an ARC-funded Discovery Project titled “The mathematics of stochastic transport and signalling in cells”. The aim of the project is to develop new stochastic mathematical models of the dynamics of protein transport and cell signalling.

The mathematics will link macro scale biological observations to micro scale molecular movements to characterise the relative role that different components and processes play. Expected outcomes are robust mathematical analyses of the transient dynamics of closed, finite capacity queueing networks and biological insight into the major control mechanisms in cellular insulin signalling. A major objective is the development of methods to quantitatively compare the time courses of stochastic measurements with the outputs of stochastic mathematical models, with a view to driving parameter inference and model selection in these systems. 

About the role

• Level A - $98K - $105K plus 17% Superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed Term – 3 years
• Full-time (35 hours per week)

The role of Research Associate reports to Professor Adelle Coster and has no direct reports.

Specific responsibilities for this role include:

• Conduct research to develop tailored and scientifically robust methods for new mathematical models of the stochastic dynamics of protein transport and cell signalling.
• Perform research collaboratively and individually, which will lead to high quality research articles for publication in leading mathematical and applications-based internationally refereed journals.
• Present results of research at conferences and other venues as required.
• Participate in the supervision of honours and research postgraduate students where required.
• Undertake other research, administration and other duties tasks arising from the project as allocated by the supervisor.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the UNSW Values in Action: Our Behaviours and the UNSW Code of Conduct, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others. Commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

About the successful applicant
(Selection Criteria)

To be successful in this role you will have:

• PhD in Mathematics, or near completion, preferably in mathematics or related field.
• Demonstrated experience with mathematical modelling, stochastic systems; parameter inference; and simulation and coding skills. Knowledge of queueing theory or cellular signalling systems is highly desirable, though not essential.
• A strong research track record (relative to opportunity), as evidenced by publications in leading journals.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated capacity to deliver high quality project outcomes in a timely manner.
• Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

You should systematically address the selection criteria listed within the position description in your application.

Please apply online - applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed.

Contact:
Adelle Coster
E: a.coster@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: May 10^th, 2021 

Find out more about working at UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au

UNSW aspires to be the exemplar Australian university and employer of choice for people from diverse backgrounds. UNSW aims to ensure equality in recruitment, development, retention and promotion of staff and that no-one is disadvantaged on the basis of their gender, cultural background, disability, sexual orientation or identity or Indigenous heritage. We encourage everyone who meets the selection criteria to apply.

UNSW partners with Australia’s leading diversity organisations, networks, and campaigns. Please refer to UNSW’s diversity offerings for further information on our flexible work and leave options, and support for carers (childcare, parent rooms, parental leave).