Research Fellow or Senior Research Fellow (Automation/Robotics)

Summary about this job

Detail information about job Research Fellow or Senior Research Fellow (Automation/Robotics). Terms and conditions vacancy

Centre for Agricultural Engineering

About us

The University of Southern Queensland (USQ) is a dynamic regional University committed to developing research solutions that deliver a global impact.  With a vision to be a leading discovery partner in priority research areas, USQ aligns its research with regional and global agendas in agriculture and natural resource management, regional development, regional health and well-being, education and digital literacy. Our researchers are to be found in the field, working alongside our partners to develop solutions that can be applied directly to industry and community.

The Centre for Agricultural Engineering has a strong research focus on areas including sustainable agriculture, energy use, bioresource recycling, water resources management, farming systems innovation, sensing, automation and robotics through applied engineering research, training and commercialisation of technologies and precision farming techniques.

A rewarding opportunity is currently available for a highly motivated researcher to investigate and develop electronic technologies in sensing, automation and robotics to support research for agricultural industries across all business groups within the Centre.

One appointment will be made at either USQ Academic Level B or USQ Academic Level C depending on your qualifications and experience.

What you’ll do

As a member of the Automation, Robotics and Machine Vision Research Program Team, you will initiate, develop and contribute to research projects, including smart technologies for agriculture with a particular emphasis on machine vision and image analysis. In doing so, you will:

• Provide professional advice on existing and emerging electronic technologies for use by internal and external organisations;
• Undertake engineering design and product development of electronic and mechatronic equipment for all business groups within the Centre and external organisations;
• Establish and build collaborative partnerships with industry and research organisations; and
• Undertake the development and implementation of innovative electronic engineering solutions for Emerging Technologies.

As a Senior Research Fellow, additionally you will lead and develop novel research and commercial proposals for submission to external funding providers and possess an ability to collaboratively develop and implement team operational plans that reflect the strategic direction of the University.

What will help you succeed?

Key to your success in this role will be your broad knowledge and experience in the use of an extensive range of electronic technologies and ability to lead multi-disciplinary projects incorporating these technologies for agricultural research. In addition, you will have:        

• A Post Graduate Degree in Engineering from a recognised tertiary institution with subsequent experience;
• Demonstrated experience in the use and programming of microcontrollers, Programmable Logic Controllers and personal computers for data acquisition and control applications;
• Excellent ability to develop innovative complex electronic and mechanical engineering solutions through the use and application of state of the art technologies to meet project commitments; and
• High level ability to engage effectively with the agricultural community and other external stakeholders.

As a Senior Research Fellow, additionally you will hold a PhD in a relevant area of electronic or mechatronic engineering and possess advanced levels of software skills in programming. You will have an established track record of initiating and delivering multi-disciplinary research projects and attracting ongoing research funding.

What we offer

As a staff member of USQ, you will experience of range of rewarding career, financial and lifestyle benefits, including generous superannuation, professional development programs, discounted personal travel and health services and many life work / life balance initiatives. You will also join a diverse and friendly team of professionals - all while enjoying the relaxed lifestyle and family-friendly atmosphere afforded by living in Toowoomba.

USQ Toowoomba is located on the beautiful Darling Downs in Queensland. Situated on the edge of the picturesque Great Dividing Range, just one and a half hours west of Brisbane and only two hours from both the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Toowoomba offers all the benefits of urban living without any of the big-city pressures. With a population of approximately 160,000 residents, Toowoomba has an enviable reputation for quality of lifestyle and world-class education. Escape the pressures of big city life while still pursuing your career goals and enjoy all that this thriving regional community has to offer.

Reference Number: 103209

Term: Full-time fixed term appointment for 4 years

Salary for Research Fellow (Level B):  Total remuneration range $108,142 to $127,820 pa (includes salary range of $91,378 to $108,005 pa, employer superannuation contributions of 17% of salary and annual leave loading)

Salary for Senior Research Fellow (Level C): Total remuneration range $131,753 to $151,431 pa (includes salary range of $111,328 to $127,955 pa, employer superannuation contributions of 17% of salary and annual leave loading)

Closes: Wednesday, 15 August 2018

At USQ, we are united by our core values of Respect, Integrity and Excellence, which guide our daily actions and decision making.

If you think you can bring this role to life, we invite you to submit your resume/CV along with a two page statement outlining your motivation and suitability for the role.  You can find out more about the role in the Position Description.