CSIRO Engineering Fellowship in Design for Advanced X-ray Characterisation

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The Opportunity

• Develop a new technology solution linked to the measurement and modelling of mineral processing
• Drive all aspects of an exciting project including the design, manufacture and implementation of a novel reaction chamber in advanced X-ray characterisation experimentation
• Join the CSIRO Mineral Resources Diffraction, Mineralogy and Geochemistry team for this exciting 3-year role

CSIRO Early Research Career (CERC) Postdoctoral Fellowships provide opportunities to scientists and engineers who have completed their Doctorate or Masters and have less than three years of relevant research experience. These fellowships aim to develop the next generation of future leaders of the innovation system.

The CERC Fellow will be a member of the Diffraction, Mineralogy and Geochemistry team of the CSIRO Mineral Resources (CMR) Characterisation Program. 

The CMR Characterisation Program delivers high quality and accurate information to improve understanding of materials across the minerals and energy value chains, from exploration to processing and metal production. The range of state-of-the-art analysis and characterisation capability includes X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, electron/optical microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, QEMSCAN, particle size analysis and high-resolution X-ray computed tomography. 

One of the CMR Characterisation Program’s flagship characterisation capabilities is in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD). In-situ XRD involves simulating – utilising bespoke or off-the-shelf reaction chambers – industrial processes/reactions within an X-ray diffractometer for elucidation of mineral phase reaction mechanisms under simulated process conditions. In-situ XRD allows for unprecedented insight into pyro- and hydrometallurgical reactions, to facilitate process design and improvements in efficiency. 

The CERC Fellow’s role will enable the development and application of a novel reaction chamber allowing for in-situ XRD analysis of high-temperature solid-state and/or solid-liquid transformations under reducing conditions. Such capability will be game changing for assisting in the development of new process technologies in fields such as Critical Minerals and Green Steel.

Your duties will include:

• Driving all aspects of the project and taking full intellectual ownership – through originality, creativity, and innovation in mechanical, electrical/electronic, instrumentation and/or system design – for the design and manufacture of a reaction chamber allowing for in-situ XRD analysis of high-temperature solid-state and/or solid-liquid transformations under reducing conditions.
• Following design and manufacture, leading the implementation of the novel reaction chamber in advanced X-ray characterisation experimentation for scientific and research impact.
• Handling commercially sensitive data and information in accordance with CSIRO requirements. Recognising and exploiting opportunities for IP generation and protection, and dissemination of outcomes through appropriate channels.  
• Recording, managing, and analysing data/information using relevant domain data science techniques.
• Leading safe work practices when working with hazardous materials (including chemicals) and scientific equipment involving ionising radiation.

To be considered you will need:

• A Doctorate (or will shortly satisfy the requirements of a PhD) OR hold an engineering degree plus a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Engineering (MEng) qualifications (or will shortly satisfy the requirements of a masters) plus equivalent levels of original and significant contributions to research and development to that expected of someone of a new PhD graduate. The Doctorate or Masters must be in a relevant discipline area, such as Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering or Electrical/Electronic Engineering.

Please note: To be eligible for this role you must have no more than 3 years (or full time equivalent) of relevant research experience.

• Demonstrated strong experience in mechanical, electrical/electronic, instrumentation and/or systems design.
• Demonstrated ability to conceptualise and design innovative mechanical, electrical and/or software systems aimed at solving complex problems in research and/or industry, and to lead their manufacture, commissioning, and/or implementation to achieve desired outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to use programming language(s) to solve problems relating to the design, manufacture, and implementation of system hardware, and/or the collection and management of data. 

For full details about this role please view the Position Description

Eligibility

Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens, Australian Permanent Residents or you must either hold, or be able to obtain, a valid working visa for the duration of the specified term. Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements.

Flexible Working Arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. 

Diversity and Inclusion

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

About CSIRO

At CSIRO Australia's national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. We put the safety and wellbeing of our people above all else and earn trust everywhere because we only deal in facts. We collaborate widely and generously and deliver solutions with real impact. 

CSIRO is committed to values-based leadership to inspire performance and unlock the potential of our people.

Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

How to Apply

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.