Research Associate/Senior Research Associate

Overview Join the Research Associate/Senior Research Associate (Formal Methods) role at UNSW The Trustworthy Systems (TS) Research Group, based within the School of Computer Science and Engineering, conducts world‑leading research on software systems whose trustworthiness can be mathematically proven. The group is offering an opportunity for a Research Associate/Senior Research Associate, where you will contribute to a range of research activities, including the development of proof techniques for systems software and their application to the verification of real‑world software systems. You will also play a key role in the group’s PISTIs-V project, working on activities such as connecting correctness proofs of usermode components to the seL4 specification, compositional reasoning for system‑level properties, formalising security policies and their enforcement, and developing reasoning frameworks for timeliness in mixed‑criticality systems. This position will give you the opportunity to develop your research skills and output by contributing to the writing of scientific papers and reports for international journals, participating in conferences and workshops, assisting in the supervision of research students, and actively engaging with industry partners. The Senior Research Associate will report to Scientia Professor Gernot Heiser and has no direct reports. Employment Details Salary – Research Associate (Level A): AUD $110,059 to $117,718 per annum + 17% superannuation Salary – Senior Research Associate (Level B, Step 1): AUD $127,947 per annum + 17% superannuation Full‑time, fixed‑term contract – 2 years Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia Qualifications – Research Associate (Level A) A PhD in computer science or a related discipline with focus on formal methods completed or close to completion Experience with interactive theorem proving using Isabelle/HOL, HOL4, Coq or similar, or experience with proving security properties with model checkers or SMT solvers Experience with formalisation of and formal reasoning about security properties and models is highly desirable Familiarity with current research in formal methods, especially applied to program verification Demonstrated ability to undertake high quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision Demonstrated track record, relative to opportunity, of publications in formal methods Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills, initiative and enthusiasm Understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training Qualifications – Senior Research Associate (Level B) PhD in computer science or a related discipline with focus on formal methods Experience with interactive theorem proving using Isabelle/HOL, HOL4, Coq or similar, or experience with proving security properties with model checkers or SMT solvers Experience with formalisation of and formal reasoning about security properties and models is highly desirable Familiarity with current research in formal methods, especially applied to program verification Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision Strong track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity Proven ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students Demonstrated ability to supervise honours and postgraduate research students Demonstrated track record in research with outcomes of high quality and high impact with clear evidence of the desire and ability to continually achieve research excellence as well as the capacity for research leadership A track record of significant involvement with the profession and/or industry Understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines Ability and capacity to implement required UNSW health and safety policies and procedures Additional Details Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via To Apply Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, Cover Letter and Responses to the Skills and Experience. You should systematically address the Skills and Experience listed within the position description in your application. Applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below. Contact:Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition ConsultantE: Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 18 January 2026 UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can participate fairly, in a safe and respectful environment. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people of diverse gender, sexual orientation, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background, people with disability and those with caring and family responsibilities. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. #J-18808-Ljbffr