Research Fellow (Level A) - Wastewater & Fatberg Management

• Full-time, Fixed Term position for 12 months with a possible extension
• Salary Academic Level A6 ($102,047 p.a.) + 17% Superannuation and Flexible Working Arrangements
• Based at the Melbourne CBD campus and the potential to work across other RMIT campuses as required

Shape real-world solutions to one of urban infrastructure's toughest challenges

RMIT University is seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow (Level A) to join our School of Engineering and contribute to cutting-edge research addressing fat, oil and grease (FOG) accumulation and fatberg formation in wastewater networks.

This role offers the opportunity to work on applied, industry-engaged research with direct environmental and infrastructure impact, while building independence, leadership capability, and a strong research profile within a collaborative STEM environment.

About the Role

As a Research Fellow (Level A), you will undertake high-quality research aligned with RMIT's research strategy, working with increasing autonomy as your expertise develops. You will collaborate closely with academic colleagues, industry partners, and government stakeholders to deliver impactful research outcomes.

Your work will span field trials, laboratory analysis, device optimisation, and techno-economic evaluation, contributing to publications, funding proposals, and real-world implementation pathways.

You may also contribute to limited undergraduate teaching and research supervision, supporting the next generation of engineers and researchers.

About You

You are a technically strong and self-driven researcher who enjoys working at the intersection of engineering research, industry application, and environmental impact.

To be successful, you will bring:

• Demonstrated expertise in fatberg management research, including:
  • Strong understanding of FOG deposition mechanisms in wastewater systems
  • Design and optimisation of FOG management devices
  • Planning and oversight of field trials
  • Extensive experience in sample characterisation
  • Capability in techno-economic analysis to assess feasibility and performance
• Evidence of research output including publications, conference contributions and/or technical reports in the field.
• Ability to generate alternative funding projects through effective liaison with industry and government.
• Ability to work autonomously whilst displaying a strong commitment to work in a team environment, including the demonstrated ability to confidently and effectively work with colleagues, project team leaders, and industry partners.
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and effectively manage varying workloads and respond to changing priorities as required.
• Demonstrated high level of communication skills.

Qualifications

Mandatory: PhD in Civil/Environmental/Chemical Engineering experience with wastewater management.

Please Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children and National Police Check.

About the RMIT STEM College

The STEM College holds a leading position in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and health (STEM) fields. We are uniquely positioned to influence and partner with industry, and to support collaboration across all areas of STEM.

The STEM College employs 1,000+ staff who deliver onshore and offshore programs to approximately 25,000 students. Our vibrant research community attracts funding from a range of government and industry sources in support of high impact research that transforms industries, shapes lives and communities. The College offers higher education programs across all STEM disciplines at the Bachelor, Master and PhD levels, and ensure our students experience an education that is work-aligned and life-changing.

Industry is at the heart of what we do. It ensures our research has real world impact, and our students are truly work-ready. We have established new hubs of industry-connected digital innovation and endeavour and are engaging with global STEM organisations at scale.

Our diversity and shared values empower our work, and we are proud of the College's inclusive, caring culture. We offer a safe, dynamic work environment, and support every member of our community of achieve their potential. The College appointed Victoria's first ever Dean of STEM, Diversity & Inclusion in 2020, and this role drives gender equity, diversity and inclusion strategies across the College.

To Apply

Please click the 'Apply' link below and upload the following documents:

• Your CV
• A cover letter
• A separate document addressing the Key Selection Criteria

For further information about this position, please see the Position Description hyperlinked below or contact Associate Professor Biplob Pramanik via email biplob.pramanik@rmit.edu.au

For further information regarding recruitment processes, please contact Jennifer Pham, Senior Talent Acquisition Advisor via email at jennifer.pham2@rmit.edu.au Please do not share your application to this email address.

Position Description - Research Fellow (Level A)

Please note, if you are viewing this advert from an external site, please click 'apply' and you will be redirected to RMIT's Jobs website to access the Position Description at the bottom of the page. Due to recent upgrades, position description links may not work on LinkedIn advertisements.

Applications close on Sunday 22 February 2026 at 11.59pm.

RMIT is an equal opportunity employer committed to being a child safe organisation. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community and we strongly encourage applications from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.

At RMIT, we are committed to supporting adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, as well as during employment. We actively support and encourage people with disability to apply to RMIT (including alternate formats of application forms). To discuss adjustment requirements, please contact Dani, via talentsupport@rmit.edu.au or visit our Careers page for more contact information - https://www.rmit.edu.au/careers.

We are a Circle Back Initiative Employer - we commit to respond to every applicant.