Research Associate in Digital Twins in Energy

Position Details

• Fixed Term for 6 Months | Full-Time

• Academic Level A | $86,423 - $104,734 p.a. + 17% Super

• Location: Tonsley / Kaurna Country

• View Position Description

About the Role

The College of Science and Engineering has an exciting new opportunity for a Research Associate in Digital Twins in Energy to contribute to an interdisciplinary project aimed at developing and evaluating a state-of-the-art digital twin platform for green energy generation. This digital twin platform will integrate machine learning models and engineering-based simulations with real-time sensor data to optimise the performance and reliability of several interconnected green energy systems, including wind turbines and solar panel arrays. This is a multidisciplinary, high-impact research opportunity situated at the intersection of AI, energy systems, industrial automation, and sustainability.
 

To be successful in this role, the Research Associate will:

• Contribute to the development of a modular digital twin platform integrating IoT sensor data, ML algorithms, and energy system modelling / simulation.

• Develop engineering-based simulations to understand operational impacts on energy output and maintenance needs.

• Prepare technical documentation, research publications, and contributing to final project reporting and presentations.

About You

As the successful candidate, you will possess a PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a closely related discipline. You will have experience conducting independent research as well as demonstrated experience in developing complex systems or models. You will have excellent attention to detail, along with strong technical and analytical abilities.
 

Additionally, you will thrive in a collaborative team environment and demonstrate strong communication skills, with the ability to build and sustain positive working relationships with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders.
 

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Demonstrated practical experience in at least two of the following areas: machine learning, energy system modelling and simulation, or digital twin systems.

• Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar) and experience with data analysis or simulation tools.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear technical documentation.

• Understanding of renewable energy technologies, particularly wind or solar generation (highly desirable).

About the College of Science and Engineering

At the College of Science and Engineering we believe in the power of science and engineering to solve real world problems. Our vision is to provide internationally recognised science and engineering education programs that are accessible, student centred, innovative and impactful. As well as being globally recognised for our research to advance science and engineering by creating new technologies that make our world more connected, secure, healthy, and sustainable. We seek to understand the past, but also to create the world of the future. Our College is an exciting place to research, study, and work, supported by best practice teaching methods, practical work-related learning, and advanced facilities.

Life at Flinders

We're transforming and investing in people and facilities to create contemporary, stimulating, and satisfying learning and work environments that reflect our core values of excellence, innovation, courage, and integrity. Flinders is refocusing its strategic priorities with the aim of elevating its performance to be a top ten Australian university, and amongst the top 1% in the world.
 

Reaching beyond the limits of buildings, borders, and backgrounds, ours is an inclusive culture that believes absolutely in equality and opportunity for all. We don't just accommodate differences; we embrace and celebrate them. So, why work at Flinders?

• 17% Superannuation + salary packaging options

• Flexible working arrangements

• Wide range of professional development activities and services

• We embrace diversity and promote equity and inclusion for all students and staff

• Vibrant campus life and amenities including on campus health care services, gym and childcare centre (Bedford Park, South Australia).

Prescribed Conditions for Employment

• A valid Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check which is satisfactory to the University will also be required before the successful applicant can commence in this position.

How to Apply and Information

• You are required to submit Suitability Statement of no more than 3 pages, addressing the Key Position Capabilities of the position description.

• For more information regarding this position, please contact Matthew Stephenson.

• Please see here for our Reconciliation Action Plan

• Please see here for our Indigenous Workforce Strategy
   

Certification

Applications to be submitted before 10.00pm:

At Flinders we embrace and celebrate diversity and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.

Flinders. Fearless.