Research Associate - UNSW Face Research Lab

About the role

This fixed-term, full-time position is located in Sydney, Australia. The Research Associate will play a leading role in a collaborative ARC Discovery Project focused on understanding human perception of AI-generated faces, working with teams at UNSW (Psychology and Computer Science), the Australian National University, and international collaborators.

Responsibilities

• Conduct collaborative interdisciplinary research in AI-face generation.
• Carry out behavioural and computational studies using machine learning and deep learning to investigate representational underpinnings of AI-face generation tools.
• Collect, curate, and maintain a large-scale database of face images and associated metadata.
• Coordinate behavioural and computational research activities across UNSW Psychology, UNSW Computer Science, and ANU.
• Maintain effective communication and reporting of study outcomes to the project team and international collaborators.
• Maintain oversight of cutting-edge deep learning technologies and evaluate their potential use for project aims (e.g., vision-language models).
• Develop innovative, efficient, and reproducible computational solutions to support experimental protocols, analysis, and other research activities.
• Support dissemination of research outcomes at local, national, and international scientific conferences and industry events.
• Lead preparation of reports and manuscripts for publication in high-ranking scientific journals.
• Conduct literature reviews to synthesize strategically important knowledge.
• Assist with supervision of research students in the relevant area.
• Seek mentorship opportunities to develop an independent academic career.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the university’s Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with health and safety policies and procedures.

Requirements

• A PhD in Computer Science, Psychology, or related Cognitive/Neural Sciences.
• Strong computational expertise and understanding of deep learning and/or machine learning approaches, including foundation models.
• Knowledge of human behavioural research at the intersection of psychology and computer science (e.g., Explainable AI, computational modelling of brain/cognitive systems).
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Initiative, leadership potential, and willingness to tackle challenging problems.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team, collaborate across organisations and disciplines, and build effective relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in data analysis and development of experimental research protocols.
• Proven commitment to keeping up to date with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake high-quality academic research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives, and values.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to relevant training.

Benefits

• Remuneration: Level A salary range of $113,000 – $121,000 per annum plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading.
• Fixed-term appointment for 18 months.
• Full-time position (35 hours per week).