Research Associate - structural masonry

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. Position Title Research Associate Academic Level Level A School / Unit Centre for Infrastructure Performance and Reliability Faculty / Division Engineering and Built Environment Reports to Professor Mark G Stewart Direct Reports Professor Mark G Stewart Indirect Reports Associate Professor Mark Masia Contract Type Fixed Term 2 years

 

Role Description

The position will focus on Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model development for structural masonry wall behavior, and laboratory testing of structural masonry. The structural masonry to be modelled and tested is masonry veneer and masonry cavity wall systems. The walls will be subjected to lateral out - of - plane distributed loading, and testing of multiple specimens to allow the determination of statistical data for the wall system collapse load for each system. The FEA model will then be extended to a stochastic FEA for the calculation of structural reliability. This will require advanced numerical modelling of structural modelling and structural testing skills develop ed under the guidance of the supervisor. A strong background in structural reliability methods is desirable. The duties of the position will be directed by the supervisor, and the position will require the ability to write technical reports and papers.

 

 

Overview Of Unit/school And Position Context

Built on the principles of equity, excellence and engagement, the University of Newcastle (UON) has a reputation as a world-class institution making an impact within our regions, throughout Australia and across the globe. At just 50 years of age, we are already ranked among the top 3% of universities worldwide and our passion for innovation and discovery will ensure our performance and reputation continues to rise. Being part of a university on the move give s our people the opportunity to really make a mark in their chosen field. The Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment is one of the leading faculties of its kind in Australia. We have achieved outstanding results in the Australian Research Council ERA research excellence ratings, being the only university to achieve the highest possible rating of '5' in Civil Engineering across all three ERA assessments (2010, 2012 and 2015), and one of only two to achieve a 5 in Electrical and Electronic Engineering across all three ERA assessments, and a 5 in Resources Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy. Our position as one of the most highly ranked engineering faculties in Australia is recognised through our associate membership of the Group of Eight. The Centre for Infrastructure Performance and Reliability (CIPAR) is at the international forefront in assessing the reliability, safety, durability and management of buildings, bridges, pipelines, aviation, and other infrastructure systems. The pioneering research at CIPAR includes risk and reliability assessment, corrosion of infrastructure, and structural masonry. The position is to assist CIPAR in research into structural masonry as part of an Australian Research Council Discovery Project ORGANISATION CHART

 

 

Role Responsibilities And Typical Activities

Areas of accountability listed in approximate order of importance and time commitment

Area of accountability

• Core Responsibilities & Typical Activities
• Measures of Performance
• Research and Innovation Conduct ARC - funded research under the supervision of the Chief Investigators
• Develop stochastic numerical models of masonry wall system behavior
• Conduct laboratory-based research in collaboration with Project CIs, PhD students and laboratory staff
• Prepare technical reports and write conference and journals papers
• Assist in HDR supervision
• Attend conferences to present research findings KPI 9 A1 and C1 publications K PI 10 RHD load
• Teaching and Learning Performance 
• Service and Engagement 

 

 

Expected Behaviours

The role is expected to display personal qualities and behaviors consistent with an Individual Contributors Level as outlined in the Leadership Framework. The UON Leadership framework describes six leadership capabilities for both academic and professional staff. At UON leaders; shape the future, engage beyond the University, work collaboratively, strive for excellence, drive performance and show courage and respect. At UON we recognise that while leaders exist at all levels, people face different challenges and demands depending on their leadership level. For each Leadership Capability, the behaviors reflect how each capability can be observed at different leadership levels in the University.