• Investigate the origins and growth of supermassive black holes and their host galaxies.
• Develop new black hole formation models within the open-source galaxy formation model Shark.
• Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 2 years.
• Base salary of $116,866 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) is a joint venture between The University of Western Australia and Curtin University. ICRAR brings together expertise in observational astronomy, theoretical and computational astrophysics, and engineering.

You will join the Theory, Computational and Modelling group at ICRAR-UWA, working with Professor Claudia Lagos on her ARC Future Fellowship, “Lighting the dark: shining black holes throughout cosmic time”. The project connects black hole formation and growth with predictions of their observable emission, addressing questions raised by discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope.

About the opportunity

You will be based at UWA’s Matilda Bay campus in Perth, with access to Pawsey supercomputing resources and an established international research network.

• Develop and test physically motivated black hole seeding models in Shark.
• Analyse cosmological simulations to investigate how seed formation environments influence black hole growth, active galactic nuclei and host galaxies.
• Compare model predictions with observations and collaborate with the team developing radiative models for accreting black hole emission.
• Lead publications, develop research ideas within the project’s objectives and contribute to documented, reproducible software and datasets.
• Collaborate with researchers internationally and contribute to student mentoring and the group’s scientific activities.

About you

• A PhD in astrophysics, astronomy, physics or a closely related discipline.
• Research expertise relevant to black hole formation and growth, active galactic nuclei, or galaxy formation and evolution.
• Experience developing or applying theoretical models, semi-analytic models, or numerical simulations, with programming, numerical analysis and data management skills.
• Experience using high-performance computing resources and reproducible research methods.
• Research achievements appropriate to career stage and opportunity, together with the ability to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively.
• Experience with galaxy formation/evolution models and simulations, halo merger trees, C++ or Bayesian parameter exploration is desirable.

Note: As part of the recruitment process, candidates will be required to complete declarations in accordance with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence.

Position description:  Postdoctoral Research Associate (Black Hole and Galaxy Formation) - 524900.pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Professor Claudia Lagos at claudia.lagos@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Zen Huang at zen.huang@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Friday, 18 December 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia

Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.

Benefits

• Flexible working options.
• Generous paid leave including parental leave.
• Up to 17% employer paid superannuation.
• Salary packaging available.
• Incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service.
• Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses.
• Discounted health insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.