Research Fellow RTCMA – Net Zero Transition Energy Efficiency and Operational Optimisation

• The opportunity to conduct world-class research in net zero transition for the mining industry

• Join an existing team on a project in partnership with Rio Tinto

• Full-time fixed term for two years with the possibility of an extension subject to satisfactory performance. Academic Level A: package $90,000 p.a. – $140,000 p.a. plus leave loading and up to 17% superannuation.  A relocation allowance maybe provided

About the opportunity 

We seek a passionate Researcher Fellow with a background in process engineering, process (flowsheet) modelling, energy optimisation of process systems, decarbonisation technologies, and integrated (renewable) energy systems to join a net zero transition project, a collaboration between the Rio Tinto Centre for Mine Automation and the Waste Transformation Research Hub. The project aims to use state-of-the-art process modelling, energy optimisation, process control and optimisation to design optimal operations and pathways to net zero for various processing facilities owned or operated by Rio Tinto.

The project will have a holistic view of energy integrations, optimal process modification and energy efficiency to revise how process plants operate. We will consider the entire operation chain, from extracting raw material to port transportation and material processing. The modelling, energy integrations, design, optimisation and control will involve a variety of time scales and levels of detail. Both steady state modelling and dynamics will be employed, including flowsheet modelling and equation-oriented modelling, with the goal to identify optimal heat integration configurations and scenarios that lead to decarbonisation of processing facilities. Various decarbonisation technologies will be considered in these modelling activities. You will work closely with the industry partner and a team of researchers and software engineers to develop novel tools that assist Rio Tinto in its net zero journey.

Your responsibilities will be:

In addition to technical expertise, the role will require good communication and collaboration skills to work as part of a team and share your research with technical and non-technical audiences. This role will provide an exceptional opportunity to work closely with academia and Rio Tinto at the intersection of fundamental research into process design and optimisation. You will be expected to build your research profile in the subject, engage in academic publication of your research, supervise honours and/or PhD students, and engage directly with the industry partner. This research-focused role does not require a teaching load, but opportunities may be available if desired.

About you

•  PhD in Chemical Engineering

• demonstrated expertise in process modelling and simulation.

• understanding of various decarbonisation techniques and their technical, environmental and economic specifications

• excellent computing skills, including working with Aspen, gPROMS, Matlab, COMSOL, DYMOLA, SAM, Python, and advanced skills in Excel

• demonstrated ability to work with a modelling team

• experience with decarbonisation process applications (solar energy, carbon capture and utilisation, energy storage) and/or collaborating with industry partners will be highly regarded

• show a demonstrated ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision, highlighting your self-motivation and research acumen

• present a track record of publications and conference presentations relative to your opportunities, signifying your commitment to advancing knowledge in your field

• prove your ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships, emphasising your teamwork and interdisciplinary skills

• possess strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders and students, reflecting your capacity to engage with and mentor others

• exhibit excellent written and oral communication skills, enabling you to convey complex ideas and findings effectively.

About us

The  Rio Tinto Centre for Mine Automation (RTCMA) is a long-term partnership between Rio Tinto and the Australian Centre for Field Robotics (ACFR) at the University of Sydney, which was established in 2007. Since its launch, it has become a world-class research group of scientists and engineers, recognised for both fundamental research and delivering technology to industry . The Centre’s research spans automation of equipment, geological interpretation and optimisation of equipment and processes. Funded by the global mining company Rio Tinto, the aim of the Centre for Mining Automation is to develop technologies to transform the mining industry through automation and optimisation of equipment and information, creating safer, more efficient, and more robust processes for a sustainable future in the mining of raw minerals.

Since our inception 160 years ago, the University of Sydney has led to improve the world around us. We believe in education for all, and that effective leadership makes lives better. These same values are reflected in our approach to diversity and inclusion and underpin our long-term strategy for growth. We’re Australia's first university and have an outstanding global reputation for academic and research excellence. Across our campuses, we employ over 7600 academic and non-academic staff who support over 60,000 students.

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To keep our community safe, please be aware of our COVID safety precautions which form our conditions of entry for all staff, students and visitors coming to campus.

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. For a continuing position, you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

Australian Temporary Residents currently employed at the University of Sydney may be considered for a fixed term contract for the length of their visa, depending on the requirements of the hiring area and the reasons for the position.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. 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 include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community which reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through 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. 

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 Rachel Ann Yousif Recruitment Operations by email to [email protected].

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Applications Close

Sunday 07 April 2024 11:59 PM