Post-doctoral Fellow in Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering

This Job is based in Australia

The Opportunity

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) offers an opportunity to develop and apply novel approaches for improving the efficiency and stability of silicon solar cells.A Post-Doctoral Fellow (Level A) is expected to contribute towards the research effort of UNSW and to develop their research expertise through the pursuit of defined projects relevant to their particular field of research. This position is part of an industry-funded project under the supervision of Scientia Prof. Martin Green, Prof. N.J. Ekins-Daukes, Prof. Timothy Schmidt, and Dr. Jessica Yajie Jiang. The aim of the project is to develop novel down-conversion/shifting materials and fabrication techniques for silicon solar cells, as well as to explore the advanced physical principles underpinning the performance of these newly structured solar cells, towards enhanced efficiency and stability. The role of Post-Doctoral Fellow (Level A) reports to Dr Jessica Yajie Jiang and has no direct reports.

• Level A, Salary – AUD $113,911 to $121,838 per annum + 17% superannuation
• Full Time (35-hours a week)
• Fixed-term contract – 12 months
• Location: Kensington – Sydney, Australia

About UNSW

UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn’t only what we do, it’s how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering is internationally recognised for its record-breaking research in solar power (photovoltaics) and renewable energy. The PERC solar cell was first invented at UNSW in our labs in 1983 and today powers more than 85% of all new solar panel modules all over the world. SPREE’s work and people have changed the face of sustainable energy on the global stage, and we continue to be at the forefront of leading-edge research and development in the field of renewable technology as our economies transition away from fossil fuels. For more information, please see the following link:

Skills & Experience

(Please review the Position Description for a full list of Skills and Experience)

• A PhD in Optical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering and other related disciplines.
• Strong track record in light-emitting materials, including organic dyes, phosphors, quantum dots, and their physics and characterisation techniques.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in fabricating solar cells and modules, particularly silicon based solar cells.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting advanced optical simulations using tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics, Lumerical, or similar software is desirable.
• Experience in application of down-conversion/shifting materials to solar cells is desirable
• Proven commitment to proactively keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high-quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Evidence of highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students.

Pre-Employment Checks

Aligned with UNSW’s focus on cultivating a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. These pre-employment checks may include a combination of some of the following checks:

• National and International Criminal history checks
• Entitlement to work and ID checks
• Working With Children Checks
• Completion of a Gender-Based Violence Prevention Declaration
• Verification of relevant qualifications
• Verification of relevant professional membership
• Employment history and reference checks
• Financial responsibility assessments/checks
• Medical Checks and Assessments

Compliance with the necessary combination of these checks is a condition of employment at UNSW.

Additional details about the specific responsibilities for this position can be found in the position description. This is available via JOBS@UNSW. To be considered you will hold Australian Working Rights or Australian Citizenship. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

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

Please note Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Wednesday 18th February 2026

Contact :

Allyssar Hamoud – Talent Acquisition Associate

E: [email protected]

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.