Research Associate/Senior Research Associate

Research Associate/Senior Research Associate (Formal Methods) UNSW invites applications for the Research Associate/Senior Research Associate position in the Trustworthy Systems (TS) Research Group within the School of Computer Science and Engineering. The role involves contributing to research activities such as development of proof techniques for systems software, application to verification of real‑world software systems, and work on the PISTIs‑V project. The successful candidate will also assist in writing scientific papers, participating in conferences, supervising research students, and engaging with industry partners. The Opportunity The Trustworthy Systems (TS) Research Group conducts world‑leading research on software systems whose trustworthiness can be mathematically proven. The group is looking for a Research Associate (Level A) or Senior Research Associate (Level B, Step 1). The Senior Research Associate will report to Scientia Professor Gernot Heiser and will have no direct reports. Key Responsibilities Develop proof techniques for systems software. Apply techniques to verification of real‑world software systems. Play a key role in the PISTIs‑V project: connect correctness proofs of user‑mode components to the seL4 specification, conduct compositional reasoning for system‑level properties, formalise security policies and enforcement, and develop reasoning frameworks for timeliness in mixed‑criticality systems. Write scientific papers and reports for international journals. Participate in conferences and workshops. Assist in supervision of research students. Engage with industry partners. Qualifications Level A – Research Associate PhD in computer science or related discipline with focus on formal methods completed or close to completion. Experience with interactive theorem proving using Isabelle/HOL, HOL4, Coq, or similar, or experience with proving security properties with model checkers or SMT solvers. Experience with formalisation and formal reasoning about security properties and models. Familiarity with current research in formal methods, especially applied to program verification. Demonstrated ability to undertake high‑quality academic research and conduct independent research with limited supervision. Track record of publications in formal methods. Ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Understanding of UNSW’s aims, objectives, and values; commitment to relevant policies and guidelines. Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to training. Level B – Senior Research Associate PhD in computer science or related discipline with focus on formal methods. Experience with interactive theorem proving using Isabelle/HOL, HOL4, Coq, or similar, or experience with proving security properties with model checkers or SMT solvers. Experience with formalisation and formal reasoning about security properties and models. Familiarity with current research in formal methods, especially applied to program verification. Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision. Strong track record of publications and conference presentations. Proven ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to supervise honours and postgraduate research students. Track record of significant involvement with the profession and/or industry. Commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives, and values; relevant policies and guidelines. Capacity to implement required UNSW health and safety policies and procedures. Compensation Research Associate (Level A): AUD $110,059 to $117,718 per annum + 17% superannuation. Senior Research Associate (Level B, Step 1): AUD $127,947 per annum + 17% superannuation. Employment Details Full‑time Fixed‑term contract – 2 years Location: Kensington, Sydney, Australia Role based in Australia About UNSW UNSW is a large organisation with a diverse and talented community. We are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. The UNSW‑UTS Trustworthy Digital Society facilitates a digitally enabled society that is equitable, inclusive, and sustainable. 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. Applications will not be accepted if sent to the contact listed below. Contact Eugene Aves – Talent Acquisition Consultanteugene.aves@unsw.edu.au Applications Close 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Sunday 18 January 2026 Equal Employment Opportunity UNSW is committed to evolving a culture that embraces equity and supports a diverse and inclusive community. 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. Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Research Industries Higher Education and Research Services #J-18808-Ljbffr