Research Assistant

Job Description

• Part time (4 days) fixed term (4 months) position at HEW Level 5.
• Parramatta South Campus with flexible working arrangements.
• $85,778 – $97,006 per annum, plus 17% Super and Leave Loading.

Support AI-assisted analysis of urban heat data through research, laboratory work and reporting.

The Opportunity
You will support a research project focused on AI-assisted data analysis, with a focus on urban heat and the relationship between surface materials and surface temperature. Working under guidance, you will contribute to data collection, laboratory work, data processing, reporting and research documentation.

Conduct literature and database searches, collect and organise urban heat data for selected locations in NSW, and apply established analytical techniques to support the project’s research aims. You will also maintain accurate records and prepare regular progress reports to support project monitoring and discussions with the project lead.

Contribute to research outputs by compiling findings for the final report, preparing presentation materials for meetings with industry and community stakeholders, and responding to enquiries about data collection and analysis. You will also provide practical laboratory support and assist students with routine tasks where required.

What Success Looks Like:

• Reliable urban heat data is collected, compiled and organised for selected NSW locations.
• Literature and database searches support analysis using established research methods.
• Standard analytical techniques are applied to examine surface materials and temperature.
• Progress reports and final project findings are clear, accurate and delivered on time.
• Stakeholder presentation materials are prepared in line with project outputs.

Please refer to the Position Description for full details.

About You

• Tertiary qualification in Architecture, Civil Engineering or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience in construction, built environment or related technical projects.
• Ability to conduct literature reviews and apply basic data analysis using established methods.
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills, including clear presentation of information.
• Sound organisational skills, with the ability to manage tasks and meet deadlines under general direction.

Benefits
We invest in the people who make our mission possible. Alongside a rewarding career, we offer a range of benefits designed to support your financial, personal and family wellbeing.

• Financial benefits: Access to staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, salary sacrifice options for onsite parking, and novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Health and wellbeing support: Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP), complimentary annual flu vaccination, eligibility for Fitness Passport membership, and access to discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare: Long day care and early learning services operate at our Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith campuses. Staff may be eligible for discounted fees and salary packaging, with places subject to centre capacity.

Application Details

• Position Enquiries: Direct to Mariam Darestani, Senior Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering via m.darestani@westernsydney.edu.au. Please include the job reference code REF1550I.
• Closing Date: 11:59pm, Sunday 2 August 2026.
• Working Rights: You must provide evidence of full-time working rights in Australia at application.
• How to Apply: Please note that only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered. As part of your online application, you will be asked to respond to screening questions addressing the key qualifications, experiences and skills required for this position.

Belonging at Western
We are committed to substantive equality as outlined in our Equal Opportunity Policy. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, candidates of all gender identities and expressions, people of all abilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

For Reasonable Adjustments during the application process, please contact talentacquisitionteam@westernsydney.edu.au.

About Western
This is your opportunity to be part of something bigger. By joining Western Sydney University, you become a valued member of our community. As our region changes, so too does our university. Western is boldly different, energetic, global, diverse, dynamic, and youthful.

Our mission is to deliver student success, impactful research, and stronger communities. As part of our team, you will have a stake in shaping the future of education, broadening horizons, and changing lives. Making a difference starts at Western.

For the latest please visit our website and LinkedIn.