Postdoctoral Research Associate

• Full time, fixed term position for two years. Located at our Camperdown campus.
• Unique opportunity to join the School of Mathematics and Statistics to work on the project "Geometric methods to detect rate-induced tipping events"
• Base Salary $117,936 (Level A, Step 6) per annum + 17% superannuation

About the opportunity

We are seeking to appoint a talented and driven Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on the project "Geometric methods to detect rate-induced tipping events," which has been recently funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC).

The overarching goal of this project is to bridge the gap between abstract geometric theory and numerical implementation for genuine multiple-timescale (MTS) problems (i.e., systems involving more than two distinct timescales). The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Martin Wechselberger (The University of Sydney) and collaborate closely with Dr. Theodore Vo (Monash University), and the well-established international collaborator network of the CIs.

This role provides a unique opportunity to build an international research profile at the intersection of geometric singular perturbation theory (GSPT), advanced scientific computing, and mathematical ecology.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• undertake high-quality research in multiple-timescale dynamical systems theory, non-autonomous systems, and their applications to complex ecological networks
• design and implement novel coordinate-independent numerical algorithms utilising automatic differentiation and pseudo-arclength continuation methods to identify contact points, pseudo-singularities, and canard solutions on nested invariant manifolds
• draft, submit, and publish research papers in leading international journals
• actively engage with local and international project collaborators, participate in research seminars, and assist in organising a dedicated topical workshop in Australia
• present research findings at major national and international conferences.

About you

• a PhD in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related quantitative field
• strong expertise in Dynamical Systems: A solid theoretical background in Geometric Singular Perturbation Theory (GSPT), canard theory, or non-autonomous dynamical systems
• advanced Computational Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in scientific programming and code development, with specific familiarity or strong interest in continuation methods and/or the parametrisation method
• knowledge of automatic differentiation techniques is highly advantageous
• familiarity with the mathematical modelling of biological, climate, or ecological systems is desirable but not mandatory
• a strong portfolio of publications (commensurate with career stage) in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• demonstrated ability to conduct research independently under limited supervision, while maintaining excellent interpersonal skills to thrive within a multi-institutional, collaborative team
• high-level written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to complete work in a timely fashion and present complex mathematical ideas clearly.

Pre-employment checks and declarations

Your employment is conditional upon the successful completion of all pre-employment or background checks required for the role in terms satisfactory to the University. Also, to meet the University's obligations under the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Eliminate Gender-Based Violence you will be asked to declare if you have been investigated for, or found to engaged in, sexual harm or gender-based violence in the course of previous employment or in a legal process. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Nicole Feain and Liam Newson, Recruitment Operations at [email protected]

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Closing date: 11:59pm, 26 July 2026

Click to view the Position Description for this role.