Associate Professor

Job Reference Number: 1675320

About the Role: 
We are seeking an internationally recognised scholar and educator in Space and Planetary Science to join the Space Science and Technology Centre (SSTC) within the School of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) as an Associate Professor.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an established leader in planetary science to shape research, teaching and engagement activities within one of the world's leading planetary science groups. The successful candidate will bring an internationally prominent research profile, significant experience working across multiple research institutions and international collaborations, and a demonstrated ability to translate scientific discovery into global impact.

The position will play a pivotal role in advancing Curtin's planetary science research agenda through leadership of major research initiatives, participation in international space missions, development of strategic partnerships, attraction of competitive funding, and mentorship of early and mid-career researchers. The successful candidate will also provide academic leadership within the School through the development and delivery of innovative teaching programs in Space and Planetary Sciences, supervision of Higher Degree by Research students, and contribution to the continued growth of Curtin's new Bachelor of Science major in Space and Planetary Sciences.

Your responsibilities will include: 

• Provide academic and research leadership within the Space Science and Technology Centre and the broader School of EPS.
• Lead internationally recognised research programs in planetary science, astrobiology, remote sensing, meteorite science, cometary science, planetary geology or related disciplines.
• Secure and lead nationally and internationally competitive research grants and collaborative research initiatives.
• Build and maintain strategic research partnerships with universities, research organisations, government agencies, industry and international space organisations.
• Contribute to international space missions and large-scale collaborative scientific programs.
• Lead and mentor research staff and Higher Degree by Research candidates, fostering the development of the next generation of planetary scientists.
• Develop and deliver innovative undergraduate and postgraduate teaching programs in planetary science, astrobiology and remote sensing of planetary surfaces.
• Lead curriculum innovation, including the development of new units and courses aligned with emerging priorities in planetary exploration and space science.
• Promote Curtin and the SSTC through public engagement, media activities, keynote presentations and professional service roles nationally and internationally.
• Contribute to School, Faculty and University leadership activities as required.

Who we are looking for (Selection Criteria): 

Essential

Qualifications

1. PhD in Planetary Science, Space Science, Astrobiology, Planetary Geology, Remote Sensing or a closely related discipline.

International Research Standing

1. An internationally recognised research profile in planetary science demonstrated through a substantial publication record, including publications in leading journals such as the Nature and/or Science family of journals.
2. Significant postdoctoral and academic experience gained across multiple internationally recognised research institutions or laboratories.

Research Leadership and Funding Success

1. A sustained and successful track record of securing nationally and internationally competitive research funding and leading externally funded research programs.
2. Evidence of successful leadership of research groups, centres, institutes or major collaborative research programs.
3. Demonstrated excellence in Higher Degree by Research supervision, including completions and mentorship of early and mid-career researchers.

Planetary Science Expertise

1. Demonstrated expertise in planetary science research, including experience in one or more of meteorite science, cometary science, planetary surface processes, astrobiology or planetary remote sensing.
2. Significant field research experience, including undertaking and leading scientific field campaigns in remote or challenging environments.
3. Demonstrated involvement in international space missions or major planetary science programs, including experience as a Science Team member or equivalent scientific leadership role.

Teaching and Curriculum Leadership

1. A strong record of teaching excellence in planetary science and related disciplines, including experience coordinating units, establishing new courses and developing innovative curricula.
2. Demonstrated capability to teach planetary science, planetary remote sensing and astrobiology at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Academic Leadership and Engagement

1. Outstanding communication, stakeholder engagement and public speaking skills, including the ability to engage effectively with scientific, industry, government and community audiences.
2. Demonstrated commitment to collegiality, diversity, inclusion, integrity and research excellence.

Role Requirements:

• As this is a continuing (permanent) role, you will require permanent work rights in Australia. We will also consider international candidates who are eligible for a relevant work visa.
• Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction  
• This role requires that the successful candidate must undergo and maintain an up-to-date Working with Children Check 

Your new Team – School of Earth and Planetary Sciences:
The School incorporates geology, spatial sciences, advanced analytical techniques, geophysics, planetary science, and more, to provide world-class training for planetary, geoscientific and geospatial careers, and undertake fundamental and applied research into the past, present and future of our planet and solar system, recognised by the latest Excellence in Research for Australia assessment.
  
With an impressive suite of facilities and expertise, and a range of funding from academic and industry sources, our School undertakes research projects all over the world in most fields of geoscience and planetary science.

A core value of our school is to deliver teaching excellence for undergraduate and Higher Degree by Research students, which is presented in a broad field of units and courses.
 
For more information about the school, please visit https://www.curtin.edu.au/about/learning-teaching/science-engineering/school-of-earth-and-planetary-sciences/ 

Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace: 
At Curtin University, we are passionate about fostering an inclusive, diverse and welcoming environment in which all people feel respected, valued and safe. Curtin is dedicated to promoting gender equity and inclusivity in all areas. We are proud of our achievements to date and recognise that there is more to do to improve employment outcomes for women and people of diverse gender identities, particularly in STEMM disciplines.

As an Athena SWAN accredited institution, we celebrate diversity and actively work to advance the representation of women and gender-diverse people in STEMM areas and empower individuals so they can thrive in their careers through a range of supportive initiatives, including leadership training, mentorship for early career progression and promotion, networking opportunities, and other professional development resources.

As reflected in the Athena Swan Charter, gender equality is a broader issue that extends beyond barriers affecting women alone, and we are committed to addressing these challenges holistically. 

Additionally, we offer staff a competitive remuneration and benefits package, including but not limited to: 

• 17% superannuation, plus a variety of salary packaging options.   
• Paid Parental leave (26 weeks for the primary caregiver and 3 weeks for non-primary) subject to eligibility criteria outlined in the Enterprise Agreement; personal leave (14 days) and annual leave (20 days)
• Enjoy 12 Public Holidays each year (including Easter Tuesday!), and 2 extra University Days over the Christmas/New Year Period (see EBA 51.1 and 51.9).
• Breastfeeding facilities and campus-based childcare (where priority of placement is given to Curtin staff and students)
• Flexible work arrangements including return to work provisions
• On-campus medical centre
• Academic Carer Support Scheme and other diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives detailed via the below link.

We believe that diverse perspectives fuel innovation and drive excellence, and we encourage women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of diverse gender, sex and sexuality, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to join us in shaping the future of STEMM together and making tomorrow better. 

To find out more about our comprehensive diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives, please visit https://www.curtin.edu.au/about/values-vision-strategy/diversity-equity/gender-equity-and-inclusion/    

About Curtin University 
Curtin University proudly stands among the top one percent of global universities according to the ARWU 2025 rankings. We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. For more information, please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page - https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-curtin/  

What We Offer You: 
This continuing ALD level role attracts a remuneration of $178,845 - $196,832 + 17% superannuation.
  
Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and a variety food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more.
  
For more reasons to work at Curtin, please visit https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/
 
Join Us! 
If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:

• Up-to-date Resume 
• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience 
• A document (up to 1500 words) addressing the selection criteria for the role (noted above)

If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, please contact our careers team on [email protected] or 08 9266 9000 (option 3,1), quoting the reference number. Applications will not be accepted via this email address, and late applications will not be accepted.

Applications close: 9pm (AWST), Wednesday, 14 October 2026
  
Please note we are not accepting applications from recruitment agencies at this time.
  
Curtin reserves the right at its sole discretion to withdraw from the recruitment process, remove the advert, not to make an appointment, or to appoint by invitation, at any time.

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