Associate Professor / Professorial Research Fellow, Mechanical Engineering (Advanced Manufacturing)

About the role

Flinders University is seeking an internationally recognised researcher in Mechanical Engineering with expertise in Advanced Manufacturing to lead a high-impact research program aligned with the University's strategic research priorities and the Flinders Factory of the Future. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of advanced manufacturing research within a collaborative and research-intensive environment, contributing to innovative solutions in areas such as industrial robotics and automation, design for manufacture, digital and smart manufacturing, sustainable and circular manufacturing, and production systems engineering. The role is appointed initially as a research-only leadership position for five years, transitioning to a continuing Teaching and Research appointment. The Associate Professor / Professorial Research Fellow, Mechanical Engineering (Advanced Manufacturing) will provide leadership and vision in: Lead an innovative and internationally competitive research program in mechanical engineering and advanced manufacturing Undertake high-impact research in areas such as industrial robotics and automation, design for manufacture, digital and smart manufacturing, sustainability, and circular manufacturing Secure competitive grant funding and generate external research and contract income Supervise and mentor Higher Degree by Research students and early and mid-career researchers Contribute to research translation, commercialisation and industry engagement About You: You are an accomplished and collaborative research leader with expertise in mechanical engineering and advanced manufacturing. You are passionate about delivering innovative and impactful research outcomes and have a demonstrated ability to build strategic partnerships and high-performing research environments. You will have: PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing, or related field Established international research profile with strong publications and competitive grant success Expertise in advanced manufacturing (e.g., industrial robotics, collaborative robotics, integrated production and automation systems, design for manufacture, sustainability and circular manufacturing) Experience leading research programs, teams, and complex projects Proven HDR supervision, mentoring, and collaboration record Knowledge of research translation, commercialisation, and industry engagement Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills This position is open to domestic and international candidates. Relocation and visa support is available. You will be considered for appointment at Level D or Level E, depending on your experience, research leadership profile, and alignment with the position capabilities. About the College of Science and Engineering At the College of Science and Engineering we believe in the power of science and engineering to solve real world problems. Our vision is to provide internationally recognised science and engineering education programs that are accessible, student centred, innovative and impactful. As well as being globally recognised for our research to advance science and engineering by creating new technologies that make our world more connected, secure, healthy, and sustainable. We seek to understand the past, but also to create the world of the future. Our College is an exciting place to research, study, and work, supported by best practice teaching methods, practical work-related learning, and advanced facilities. Why Flinders University? At Flinders University, we embrace and celebrate diversity and are committed to achieving gender equality in employment by identifying and removing any discriminatory employment barriers and taking action to promote gender equality in the workplace. We have been awarded Institutional Bronze Accreditation in the SAGE Athena SWAN program, recognising the University's ongoing efforts towards achieving gender equity. Ours is an inclusive culture that believes absolutely in equality and opportunity for all. We don't just accommodate differences; we embrace and celebrate them. So, why work at Flinders? Ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide. Ninety per cent of Flinders research has been ranked at 'world standard or above' by Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 17% Superannuation + salary packaging options Flexible working arrangements Wide range of professional development activities, funds and services, such as Flinders University's Researcher Development and Leadership Programs. Our Commitment to Rec