POSITION DESCRIPTION
Research Associate
Vacancy Reference No:
HR will allocate this number
Major Cost Centre:
Faculty of Science and Engineering
Organisational Unit:
School of Chemistry, Physics and Earth Science
Classification:
Research Fellow Level A
Salary Range:
$72,923
Superannuation:
HR will complete this section
Employment Type:
Fixed Term, 2 Years (extendable)
Supervisor (Title):
Prof. David Lewis
Closing date:
November 4, 2013
KEY PURPOSE
The successful applicant will work on externally funded projects related to
applications of nanotechnology and polymer science in coatings and other industrial
applications
ORGANISATIONAL ENVIRONMENT
The School of Chemical and Physical Sciences (CAPS) is a multidisciplinary school of
experimental sciences within the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Adelaide's Flinders
University. CAPS offers degrees in the broad areas of Chemistry, Physics, Nanotechnology
and, Forensic and Analytic Chemistry. Academic staff members have a broad range of
research programs.
Specifically, the successful applicant will work in the Nanomaterials Group which has a
significant history in developing and applying innovative nano-materials in a range of
applications, and has a variety of equipment for both chemical and physical characterisation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
The key responsibilities and selection criteria identified for this position should be read in
conjunction with the Flinders University Academic Profile for the relevant academic
classification, available at http://www.flinders.edu.au/ppmanual/staff/acprofiles.html
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Formulate and characterise durable coatings comprising nanoparticles
Formulate, apply and characterise coatings on a range of substrates using appropriate
techniques
Evaluate coatings and environmental parameters in pilot trials
Contribute significantly to the preparation of publications and reports
FLINDERS UNIVERSITY  ADELAIDE  AUSTRALIA
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Prepare and deliver presentations to a wide range of audiences, including industry and
research partners
Prepare and deliver guest lectures in areas of expertise as appropriate
Provide guidance and assistance to other staff and students in the absence of the project
manager.
Promote and provide a safe working environment for students, staff and visitors with
attention to the requirements of the Occupational Health Safety and Welfare Act, the
Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act and Equal Opportunity legislation.
Specific responsibilities are detailed at http://www.flinders.edu.au/ohsw/sup-resp.html
and http://www.flinders.edu.au/eo_unit/legislation/index.html
WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
The successful applicant will report to Prof. David Lewis and work closely with the students
and staff in the Lewis group and the Flinders centre for NanoScale Science and Technology
as well as the industry partners and other research institutions in the program.
SELECTION CRITERIA
(Note for intending applicants – applicants should address each selection criterion
individually and should argue their case by citing evidence to support their claims
rather than presenting a list of facts only).
Essential criteria
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Gained or about to gain a post-graduate qualification (PhD or equivalent) in science –
applicants who have submitted their thesis are eligible.
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Demonstrated knowledge of polymer science polymer science.
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Proven proficiency in use cutting edge characterisation equipment and in the
interpretation of data from these instruments.
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Evidence of a capacity to undertake independent, innovative and productive research
in a related area.
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Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a team
member in an academic research unit or comparable environment.
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Experience writing reports and manuscripts.
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Good written and oral communication skills. Strong organisational and administrative
skills.
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Ability to provide supervision and assistance to other staff and students.
Desirable criteria
 Demonstrate a track record of success in writing research proposals;
INFORMATION FOR PROSPECTIVE STAFF
All intending applicants should read the Essential Information for Applicants, available at
http://www.flinders.edu.au/employment/app.php. If you are unable to access this information
on the web site, please contact the contact person nominated below.
Information about Flinders University, living and working in Adelaide and employment at the
University is available at http://www.flinders.edu.au/employment/whyflin.php
SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Please submit cover letter addressing the selection requirements above and a complete CV to:
nano@flinders.edu.au
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For Further Information Contact:
Dr Rachel Sparks
Executive Officer
Flinders Centre for NanoScale Science and Technology
Email: nano@flinders.edu.au
Telephone: 08 8201 3534
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