Research Projects Officer - Photovoltaic Development

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• Hands-on role in solar cell fabrication & characterisation, advancing next-generation photovoltaic technologies
• Indefinite, full-time opportunities at Newcastle, NSW expecting high standards of laboratory stewardship
• Join CSIRO! A truly collaborative and inclusive workplace.

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We are actively seeking a research project officer to be a part of the Solar Technologies Group, within CSIRO’s Energy Research Unit. You will work within a multidisciplinary engineering & scientific team, responsible for delivering project milestones for a range of funded projects, primarily contributing to the delivery of research projects developing new photovoltaic technologies.

This position plays a key role in the fabrication and characterisation of solar cells, with a strong focus on thin‑film deposition across multiple techniques. You will support the operation of a cutting‑edge laboratory by maintaining specialised equipment, contributing to continuous improvements, and upholding high standards of laboratory stewardship. Working closely with a collaborative research team, you will help ensure smooth, efficient, and innovative facility operations.

This opportunity is a laboratory scientist role that requires the candidate to be present on-site.

• Contribute to the development of new photovoltaic technologies, with a focus on thin film fabrication using standard and novel techniques.
• Fabricate novel semiconductor films, characterise their properties and evaluate films and devices
• Continue to refine automated laboratory systems to produce thin films and semiconductors at scale efficiently.
• Undertake maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment.
• Show initiative to seek new approaches to meet experimental or technological needs when encountering new problems where methods are not defined.

Location: Newcastle, NSW.

Salary: AU $100K – AU $113K per annum (pro-rata for part-time) plus up to 15.4% superannuation/ share combined salary too

Tenure & work schedule: Indefinite;
Full-time

Reference: 102063

• Relevant Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent relevant work experience in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
• Enthusiasm for practical laboratory work, with a strong interest in experimental problem-solving and continuous skill development.
• Demonstrated experimental rigour, including following and developing protocols with close attention to detail and thorough laboratory record-keeping, data analysis and presentation skills.
• Practical expertise in analytical and characterisation techniques such as electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction.

• Experience with thin-film deposition techniques such as chemical vapour deposition (CVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD), sputter deposition, or physical vapour deposition (PVD).
• Experience working in clean or controlled environments (e.g., clean rooms, glove boxes) or other settings where contamination control is critical.
• Practical experience in characterising the performance of electrical or electrochemical devices.
• Familiarity with gas safety, gas delivery systems, and/or vacuum systems (e.g., Swagelok, KF fittings).

For full details about this role, please review the Position Description.

While it is CSIRO policy that the successful candidate must meet all the essential criteria, there are many ways to demonstrate this. Don’t let the list discourage you. If you are unsure about applying, please reach out…