Research Associate / Senior Research Associate (Formal Methods)

Opportunity

The Trustworthy Systems (TS) Research Group, based within the School of Computer Science and Engineering, is conducting world-leading research on software systems whose trustworthiness can be mathematically proven. The group is offering an opportunity for a Senior Research Associate. 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.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine proof techniques for systems software.
• Apply proof techniques to the verification of real-world software systems.
• Play a key role in the PISTIs-V project: connect correctness proofs of user-mode components to the seL4 specification, perform compositional reasoning for system-level properties, formalise security policies and enforce them, and develop reasoning frameworks for timeliness in mixed-criticality systems.
• Write scientific papers and reports for international journals, and present at conferences and workshops.
• Assist in the supervision of research students and actively engage with industry partners.

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 of publications in formal methods.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant training.

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 using 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.
• Proven ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with diverse stakeholders and students.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise honours and postgraduate research students.
• Track record of research with high quality, high impact outcomes and evidence of desire for research excellence and leadership.
• Significant involvement with the profession and/or industry.
• Commitment to UNSW’s policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities.

Salary and Employment

• Research Associate (Level A): AUD $110,059 to $117,718 per annum + 17% superannuation.
• 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.

Application Process

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.

Please note applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below.

Contact

Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultant

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Application Deadline

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 18 January 2026.

EEO Statement

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 backgrounds, 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.

Seniority Level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment Type

• Full-time

Job Function

• Research
• Higher Education and Research Services

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