Full time, fixed term for 2 years
Be part of the Moon to Mars Initiative
Base Salary $113,400 - $132,212 + 17% superannuation
About the opportunity
The Australian Centre for Robotics (ACFR) at the University of Sydney is partnering with EPE Oceania and the ELO2 Consortium to advance Australia's space capabilities as part of the Moon to Mars Initiative. We are seeking two innovative and driven Research Associate/Fellow in Planetary Robots (Level A or B depending on experience) to contribute to cutting-edge research in autonomous navigation and mission operations systems, with the goal of delivering operational capabilities for the Roo-ver lunar mission https://www.elo2.au .
About the opportunity
The Research Associate/Fellow in Planetary Robots, will contribute to the development and deployment of advanced autonomous systems for lunar rover operations, integrating navigation, environmental sensing, and mission-critical decision-making technologies. Working within Australia's premier space robotics initiative, these positions combine research excellence with practical impact, bridging academia and industry in Australia's most ambitious lunar exploration project.
Key technologies include:
autonomous path planning algorithms for GPS-denied lunar environments and extreme operational conditions
stochastic optimisation frameworks for mission-critical decision-making under uncertainty
Research areas and technical challenges:
Successful candidates will contribute to one or more of the following research domains:
development of autonomous navigation and path planning algorithms for lunar terrain traversal and regolith sampling missions
design of machine learning systems for real-time obstacle detection, terrain analysis, and environmental adaptation in extreme environments
implementation of multi-constraint optimisation including line-of-sight maintenance, energy efficiency, thermal management, and communication protocols
integration of autonomous systems with broader rover capabilities including power management, thermal control, and payload operations.
Collaboration and impact:
Researchers will work closely with EPE Oceania, Lunar Outpost Oceania, and other ELO2 Consortium members to ensure research innovations address real mission requirements. This includes adapting algorithms to lunar surface conditions, optimising operations for 24/7 mission control, and delivering flight-ready systems that meet NASA and ASA mission standards.
Core challenges:
translating advanced algorithms into field deployable and operational systems
managing complex technical integration across multiple consortium partners and international stakeholders
collaborating with industry partners and government agencies to meet mission-critical requirements
balancing innovation with mission-critical reliability and space environment constraints.
About you:
We are looking for researchers with a strong technical background and a passion for space exploration and autonomous systems. Key attributes include:
a PhD in Mechatronics, Computer Science or a related field with a focus on algorithmic software design, development and deployment
a proven track record in robotics, autonomous navigation, optimisation, mission operations, or space systems research
experience with autonomous systems, algorithm development, or mission-critical optimisation software in challenging environments
strong collaborative and communication skills for working in multidisciplinary teams
demonstrated ability to translate research into practical, deployable solutions
early Level B appointments are possible for candidates that have demonstrated 1-2 years of postdoctoral experience in this or related area, with field / practical experience.
Relevant technical expertise may include:
path planning algorithms and autonomous navigation
stochastic optimisation and decision-making under uncertainty
mission operations software and systems engineering
space systems and mission-critical software development.
What we offer:
opportunities to contribute to Australia's premier lunar robotics mission with global significance
collaboration with world-class space industry partners, government agencies, and international space organisations
access to state-of-the-art robotics platforms and space mission infrastructure
direct contribution to Australia's Moon to Mars Initiative and national space capabilities.
Work Rights: you must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.
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 LGBTIQ+ . We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Gold 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 Rebecca Astar or Cherie Goodwin at Recruitment Operations by email recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au
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Applications Close
Tuesday 16 September 2025 11:59 PM