Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Male, Man, Accessories, Glasses, Face, Cleaning

Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering (Women only)

This targeted recruitment strategy is part of an ongoing commitment to support gender balance within the School of Science, Technology and Engineering, closing the gender pay gap across UniSC, and ensuring Australia has an engineering workforce that more equitably represents our society. This position is open only to applicants who are women to improve the under-representation of women in Engineering, as a genuine equal opportunity measure under section 105 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld).

Job ID: 492549

Applications close: Sunday 23 March 2025

For enquiries: Dean, School of Science Technology and Engineering

Work area: School of Science, Technology and Engineering

Location: UniSC Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs or UniSC Moreton Bay, Petrie

Classification: Level D

Supervisor: Dean, School of Science, Technology and Engineering

Employment: Full-time, ongoing appointment

Position description: Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering 

Position overview

The School of Science, Technology, and Engineering (SSTE) is a driving force in tackling the pressing challenges our planet faces today. With a strong emphasis on STEM education and research, we equip our students with the knowledge and skills to develop innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Our dedicated academic staff are committed to high-quality teaching, industry engagement, community outreach, and research that holds both global relevance and regional impact. Join us today to address global threats and work towards building a more sustainable future.

UniSC invites applications from established Associate Professors or Senior Lecturers ready for Academic Promotion in Mechanical Engineering to join our team of dedicated researchers and educators. In this role, you’ll bring your expertise to shape and lead UniSC’s growing mechanical engineering programs, including teaching in areas like mechanical design and contributing to new program developments such as our three new Masters of Engineering programs in Civil, Mechanical, and Engineering Project Management. You’ll also conduct innovative research, collaborating with partners that are local, national, and international. Our research strengths include sustainable building (including construction materials and energy efficiency), pavements, engineering materials, renewable energy (including hydrogen and battery storage), and advanced manufacturing. Engineering staff have established strong relationships with governmental and industry groups, including Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay Councils, Veolia, Helimods, and SMEC. This is a unique opportunity to impact the next generation of engineers and to drive progress in a supportive, flexible, and inclusive academic setting.

The creation of this position forms part of a strategic effort to increase gender diversity within our engineering discipline. Research shows that visible women role models can make a significant impact, building confidence and inspiring women to pursue careers in engineering. Within UniSC’s Athena Swan action plan, we are taking active steps to create a balanced and inclusive academic environment, and this targeted recruitment is a key part of our commitment.

About

The Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering will provide academic leadership in research, teaching, and engagement within the Engineering Discipline at UniSC.

This role will contribute to the university’s research strengths in areas such as sustainable building, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing, fostering collaborations with industry and government partners, including the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Hub, Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay Councils, Veolia, Helimods, and SMEC.

As a senior academic within the School of Science, Technology and Engineering (SSTE), the Associate Professor will undertake high-quality research, secure external funding, and supervise postgraduate students. The role includes leading curriculum development and teaching in undergraduate and postgraduate programs, ensuring alignment with accreditation requirements and contemporary industry practices. The Associate Professor will also contribute to the university’s strategic initiatives, strengthen industry and community partnerships, and provide academic leadership through mentoring, governance, and service to the university.

Key Accountabilities

Specific accountabilities for this role include:

1.      The University aims to build research productivity and output significantly.  Research is a scholarly practice that includes:

  • National leadership, and sometimes international leadership in their field
  • purposefully developing focused expertise in a discipline/field
  • developing a clear research agenda and leading and participating in research teams
  • framing research problems and researchable hypotheses
  • designing, leading and conducting research projects and writing research reports
  • successfully applying for research grants, particularly external competitive grants
  • communicating research outcomes to both expert and lay audiences through publishing, exhibiting and performing, and subjecting outcomes to peer appraisal
  • mentoring other researchers, particularly Early Career Researchers and Early Career Academics
  • successfully supervising Higher Degree by Research candidates 
  • developing and maintaining strategic research partnerships 
  • developing and exploiting intellectual property
  • being invited to conduct research with colleagues at other universities and give addresses in various research and research training fora in recognition of excellence in research in the discipline/field, and
  • making sound leadership contributions to the development and maintenance of a positive academic environment that is conducive to high levels of engagement and standards of performance in research

2.      The University is committed to delivering high quality teaching, learning and graduate outcomes.  Teaching is a scholarly practice that includes:

  • maintaining currency in one’s discipline/field
  • maintaining currency in effective learning and teaching practices, especially in one’s discipline/field
  • designing, developing, evaluating and improving curricula and teaching
  • making use of appropriate technologies and media to support and enhance learning, teaching, assessment and evaluation 
  • engaging students in learning in a variety of modes including: face-to-face (lecturing, tutoring, conducting workshops, simulations and in laboratories) and learning supported by online tools that enhance knowledge construction, collaboration, communication and engagement
  • supporting students to be successful learners
  • assessing, and giving fair, helpful and timely feedback on students’ work 
  • leading learning and teaching development processes within and beyond the University
  • high quality administration of teaching
  • developing and maintaining strategic partnerships that enhance the quality of learning and teaching within the University and beyond
  • conducting “practitioner research” into learning and teaching and communicating the outcomes of that research, particularly in quality refereed journals 
  • being invited to teach at other universities and give addresses in various learning and teaching fora in recognition of excellence in learning and teaching in one’s discipline/field, and
  • making sound leadership contributions to the maintenance of a positive academic environment that is conducive to high levels of engagement and standards of performance in learning and teaching

3.      The University is committed to regional, national and international engagement and articulates the importance of partnerships and ongoing consultation and cooperation with a broad and diverse range of stakeholders.  External engagement is a scholarly practice through which academic staff apply their discipline knowledge and skills to problems in the world.  Through external engagement, worthwhile social, civic and professional functions are performed.  

4.      Engagement within the University enables academic staff to contribute to defining and achieving the University’s strategic priorities through activities other than teaching and research.

5.      Contribute to a positive and safe work environment for you and others, by modelling and promoting conduct that is culturally capable, inclusive, respectful, and ethical.

6.      Other duties within the range of skills normally associated with this classification, including those associated with an evolving research, teaching, learning and professional environment, as required.

Selection Criteria

Applicants need to demonstrate they meet the following knowledge, skills and experience:

1.      Completion of a doctoral qualification in a relevant field and comprehensive experience as an academic 

2.      Evidence of involvement in, and impact on, the development of their discipline/field.

3.      A clear and coherent research program with: a strong track record of sustained and productive engagement in high quality research; publicly verifiable outputs and outcomes from research; external recognition of research performance and achievement; quality supervision of candidates for Higher Degrees by Research; and impact of research.

4.      Commitment to and evidence of quality research, for example through: effective mentoring to develop the research capability and capacity of Mid and Early Career individuals and teams; contributions that strengthen research capacity, capability and culture; and service on national discipline panels, such as funding panels of experts and other assessment panels.

5.      A strong track record of teaching experience and effective teaching practice in undergraduate and post-graduate courses (subjects), with a preference for experience in teaching mechanical engineering design. In addition to active face-to-face (classroom) and online teaching, this includes tasks such as leading course (re)design, assessment design, development of learning materials, program and course coordination, and leading and working within a team of program and course staff and engineering colleagues. Evidence of effective teaching may include examples of:

a.      student feedback on teaching using valid instrument/s, peer review, and/or student outcomes.

b.      having developed and delivered higher education curricula, learning materials and assessments for specific courses (subjects).

c.      other contributions and activities in relevant areas of teaching. 

d.      teaching awards or similar formal recognition.

6.      Inclusive and solution-focused contributions and personal qualities that influence the development and maintenance of a positive academic environment which is conducive to high levels of engagement and standards of achievement for both staff and students.

7.      A strong track record of experience and success in academic administrative functions within a University.

8.      The ability to develop, maintain, and lead productive regional, national and international partnerships that benefit students, the community and the University.

Desirable

9.      Postgraduate qualifications in higher education.

10.   Formal external and/or internal recognition for excellence in learning and teaching and/or research.

Recruitment process

How to apply

Your application should include:

  • Resume
  • A cover letter not to exceed one page. This statement should outline your skills, knowledge and qualities that will make you a success at UniSC.
  • A response to key selection criteria not to exceed 3 pages.

Closing date 

Applications close: 11:55pm Sunday 23 March 2025

Contact 

If you have any questions about the position or for a confidential discussion, please contact:

Dean, School of Science Technology and Engineering 
Email: deansste@usc.edu.au

Candidates may be requested to undergo psychometric testing and give permission for verification of their tertiary qualifications.

Prospective candidates interested in applying for this position must demonstrate eligibility to work full-time in Australia. Employment sponsorship opportunities are available for qualified candidates.

UniSC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, women in STEM, First Nations Peoples, and individuals of diverse cultures, genders, abilities, and experiences. We value achievement relative to opportunity and encourage your commentary on your achievements in this context. This position is open only to applicants who are women under section 105 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld), as it is a genuine special measure intended to promote equal opportunity for women in Engineering. 

The environment

The University of the Sunshine Coast is structured around its areas of expertise. UniSC has five schools that cover health, business and creative industries, science, technology and engineering, law and society and education. 

We introduced new programs in Engineering and Technology, including those in cyber security and forensics, including a number of embedded industry certifications. We recently began offering Technology programs at our new campus in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD. Looking ahead, we plan to expand our offerings further in 2025 with the introduction of a new programs in postgraduate engineering and undergraduate science.

From our first campus in Sippy Downs which began welcoming students in 1996, UniSC has rapidly expanded its campus footprint to now include five award-winning campuses across South East Queensland, from Moreton Bay to the Fraser Coast and UniSC Adelaide. 

Our online offering has grown dramatically with almost 7,500 students enrolled in 2023 and 58 programs on offer in 2024. Delivery of learning to students is managed through the schools within a common set of principles. 

UniSC has undergone a significant evolution of our learning and teaching to improve the reach and impact of classes. It has offered students access to a range of learning materials that are relevant and more meaningful than the traditional lecture. Examples include podcasts, interviews, simulations, screencasts, recorded discussions and formative quizzes, along with seminars, that are dependent on the learning outcomes of each individual course.

Whilst learning materials are delivered through the universities learning management system, student engagement is achieved either on-campus in a blended mode – with on-campus tutorials, practicals, seminars and laboratories – or through an online experience.

UniSC is home to some of the most advanced facilities in Australia, including simulated nursing and paramedic labs, advanced engineering technologies, and state-of-the-art creative industries’ facilities. Our modern laboratories and equipment replicate real life working environments, so students graduate work-ready.

The School of Science, Technology and Engineering (SSTE) brings together all non-health related STEM disciplines to create a vibrant, multidisciplinary environment that fosters innovative and impactful research and educational outcomes. SSTE is located on three of UniSC’s campuses at Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast and Fraser Coast. We are excited to be part of UniSC’s growing presence at our Moreton Bay Campus, with SSTE staff and students benefiting from existing facilities as well as three new buildings which opened in 2024.

Our research has been independently rated as above or well-above world standard in Biology, Environmental Sciences, Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, Materials Engineering, and Technology. We have research and funding agreements with local, national and international funding agencies, as well as a number of industries. Along with UniSC colleagues from other Schools, we are founding partners with the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN), and also members of the Advanced Robotics in Manufacturing Hub (ARM-Hub), a number of Collaborative Research Centres (SmartSat, Honey Bee Products, Marine Bioproducts), Galapagos Science Centre and the Queensland Defence Science Alliance. We are extremely proud of our success in the recent Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2022 with UniSC placing first in Queensland and equal 31st in the world overall, with specific SDG results of 5th for Clean Water and Sanitation, equal 18th for Life on Land, 19th for Life Below Water, and 22nd for Climate Action.

We offer a number of qualifications at both under- and post-graduate levels including bachelor’s degrees in Animal Ecology; Computer Science; Environmental Science; Environmental Management; Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical & Electronic); Information and Communication Technology; and Science, as well as Masters and Doctoral degrees. We also work closely with Future Learn to deliver online short courses. We pride ourselves on the practical nature of the education we deliver, right from the first semester of a degree.

School of Science, Technology and Engineering at UniSC

UniSC is a place where lifelong friends are made, and opportunities are earned. Our diverse community is made up of many people, with many stories, from different backgrounds, ages, cultures and geographical locations.

No matter your background, we know you’ll feel at home at UniSC. From the moment our students walk onto campus to the day they graduate, they're surrounded by encouragement and support.

We are rated as one of Australia's best for overall student experience. We invite you to experience life at UniSC with us, and find out why.

Student life at UniSC

At UniSC, our goal is to provide quality learning experiences that challenge and engage our students and prepare them to live and work in a changing world.

To do this, the curriculum is designed to be:

  • Learning-centred; 
  • Standards based; 
  • Constructively aligned; and 
  • Career and future focused.

These principles are evidenced in innovative and authentic learning experiences that meet sector standards and industry expectations. In addition, UniSC has Graduate Attributes which are embedded and frame all learning outcomes in courses and programs at UniSC.

Learning and teaching at UniSC

Spanning multiple disciplines, our teams pursue and share new knowledge, collective understanding, and bold solutions that bring about real impact and positive change that helps move everyone forward. Across our campuses, the next generation of researchers are answering some of today’s most pressing issues, focused on ensuring healthier people and a healthier planet.

The School of Science, Technology and Engineering undertakes research aimed at addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and technological innovation.

Research within the School spans a wide range of fields, such as environmental science, advanced materials, biotechnology, geospatial analytics, and coastal ecosystem management. The work is grounded in collaboration with industry, government, and community partners, ensuring practical and impactful outcomes.

Through its research, the School advances knowledge and develops solutions that promote sustainability, bolster environmental resilience, and drive innovation in science, technology, and engineering, with a focus on making a meaningful impact on both local and global challenges.

Sustainable UniSC

Welcome to the University of the Sunshine Coast, UniSC for short. A young, fresh university driven by an unwavering belief that community and culture is just as important as a world-class education, delivered by world-class educators. 

We may not be the biggest university, but we’re growing fast, and doing big things. Like ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, producing gold-winning athletes and award-winning alumni. 

Our first campus, on the Sunshine Coast, opened its doors in 1996. Today, our award-winning facilities span five campuses across South East Queensland, an area of unique geographical importance. In fact, UniSC is the world’s only university with campuses on three connecting UNESCO biosphere reserves and the World Heritage Listed K’gari.  

While we acknowledge and learn from the past, as a young university, we aren’t confined by the red tape found inside sandstone institutions. So you’re never going to be bombarded by stale traditions or hear phrases like “That’s the way we’ve always done it”. 

Our job is to empower fresh thinkers and ambitious minds to create positive change and ways of thinking that moves everyone forward. And our students, staff and researchers work hard every day to do just that. 

Together with our people, community and partners, we’re building a safe, sustainable, supportive, future-focused and fun learning environment, where lifelong friends are made, and opportunities are earned. 

We invite you to learn, experience and gain the tools you need to not just create a better tomorrow for yourself, but for the communities and planet you live on.  

We can’t wait to meet you.

The Organisation

UniSC’s organisational structure supports its ambitious agenda. Strong portfolios and flat, clear reporting lines facilitate accountability, flexibility and responsiveness.

Key statistics

A young university at the epicentre of progress. We’re a growing, comprehensive university focused on excellent teaching, ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, and producing award-winning alumni.

Our rankings

We’re a growing, comprehensive university focused on excellent teaching, ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, and producing award-winning alumni. 

Annual Report

View our achievements, challenges and performance against key indicators in our Annual Report.

Strategic Plan 

Our aspiration over the next ten years is to adopt a challenger mindset and be globally recognised in the following domains: Student success by design; World-class research at scale; Sustainability leadership; and Expanding global footprint.

Locations

UniSC stands as the world's sole university with campuses situated within three interconnected UNESCO biosphere reserves and the UNESCO World Heritage Listed K’gari.

Discover

Ready to apply?

Enter your name, email address and APPLY to get started:

 

Refer someone to this job

Not You?

Thank you

Our Values