Research Fellow - Mechanical Engineer for THz laser scanning imaging system na The University of Queensland

• School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science – Faculty of Engineering

• Part-time (40%), fixed-term position for up to 12 months

• Base salary will be in the range $114,824.05 - $136,048.72 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level B)

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

• Based at our St Lucia Campus - Brisbane

About This Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for a Research Fellow (Mechanical Engineer) to join a dynamic team advancing the development of high-speed, high-power laser imaging systems for next-generation biomedical applications. The role involves the mechanical design, integration, and optimisation of precision opto-mechanical systems, including thermal management, vibration isolation, structural stability, and housing for advanced laser platforms. You will also contribute to experimental campaigns, working closely with optical, electronic, and biomedical researchers to ensure system robustness and reliability.

This research underpins biomedical applications, with a particular focus on early melanoma detection through novel laser-based imaging techniques. The position offers an opportunity to deepen your expertise in precision mechanical engineering while contributing to impactful, translational research. You will be supported to develop your research track record and establish a nationally recognised profile in this emerging interdisciplinary field.

Key responsibilities will include: 

• Research: Supports the team’s research program to achieve recognition and impact in the field, by designing and developing precision opto-mechanical components and assemblies; developing mechanical systems for sensor alignment, motion control, and structural stability; collaborating on the assembly, integration, and optimisation of laser imaging platforms; conducting testing and validation to ensure mechanical functionality and performance; contributing to research projects and applications for competitive funding; applying best-practice engineering and research methodologies; and actively participating in project discussions.

• Teaching: Where undergraduate teaching is undertaken achieves teaching quality as indicated by approved surveys and outcomes for students and improves or innovates where appropriate in response to feedback.

• Supervision and Researcher Development: Supervise students, recruit and manage employees, provide performance feedback and training, resolve conflicts, and ensure correct remuneration and benefits.

• Citizenship and Service: Develop partnerships, demonstrate leadership through mentoring, engage in internal service roles and committees, perform administrative functions, provide support to colleagues, and uphold university values.

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged.

At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation. UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.

As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad:  from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

About You

• Completed PhD (or equivalent experience) in Mechanical Engineering, with an established profile and over 10 years of professional experience in mechanical or opto-mechanical design.
• Experience in the design of opto-mechanical jigs and assemblies for THz laser systems, including integration with cryo-coolers and WM-86 and WM-71 waveguides.
• Skilled in designing jigs and methods for QCL chip indium bonding.
• Experience in developing opto-mechanical assemblies for integrating optical components with cryostats.
• Demonstrated expertise in project management and leading R&D projects.
• Working knowledge of machining processes and familiarity with CNC machining, concept design, prototyping, and developing designs through to commercialisation and production.
• Proficiency in CAD systems, including SolidWorks, Pro/Engineer/Creo, LogiKal, and AutoCAD, with the ability to apply these tools effectively to the design, analysis, and optimisation of mechanical and opto-mechanical systems.

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, criminal check, education check, etc. 

Work Rights:

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.

Questions? 

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Karl Bertling via [email protected]. 

For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at [email protected], stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
 

Want to Apply? 

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload:

• Resume

• Cover letter

• Responses to the ‘About You’ section

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We are dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We are committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact [email protected].

Other Information 

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who do not meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

Applications close on Wednesday, 17 September 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-55456).

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