Macquarie University is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Mechanical/Mechatronics/Materials Engineering to join an industry-funded project on recycling end-of-life solar panels.

The Role

Every year, a growing number of end-of-life solar panels enter landfill. The researcher will work on a project focused on recycling end-of-life solar panels and will collaborate closely with the industry partner. The project involves delaminating solar panels, recovering constituent materials, and extracting valuable resources. This project is being undertaken with an industry partner and has the potential to significantly improve the management of electronic waste by addressing the growing number of end-of-life solar panels entering landfill.

We are looking for a passionate researcher who can undertake mechanical design, design and conduct experiments, learn quickly, solve complex problems, develop innovative solutions, and contribute to both academic and industry knowledge through this project.

Your key responsibilities include:

• Design and integrate mechanical systems

• Design tools and equipment for solar panel delamination

• Design systems for component handling and material recovery during delamination

• Design and set up a metal recovery system

• Characterise and scientifically analyse material quality

• Measure adhesion forces

• Design and conduct scientific experiments, and collect, analyse and interpret data

• Contribute to managing and maintaining laboratory equipment

• Generate and disseminate high-impact research outputs, contributing to reports, conferences and potential IP development

• Assist in preparing journal publications, conference presentations and grant applications

• Supervise and mentor higher degree research students where appropriate

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across academia and industry

• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures and quality standards

How to Apply

To be considered for this position, please submit your CV along with a separate document responding to the selection criteria below.

Essential

• A PhD in mechanical/mechatronics/materials engineering or a closely related discipline

• Demonstrated track record in mechanical design and/or tool design.

• Demonstrated track record of research excellence with emerging or established recognition

• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills

• Commitment to teamwork and collaborative work, both domestically and internationally

Desirable

Previous experience in working on industry projects, with the ability to adhere to project timelines, milestones, and deliverables.

*Please note that this position will require a criminal record check.

We are only considering applications from candidates who are currently based in Australia and hold full working rights.

Applications Close: 23 September 2026 at 11:59pm (AEST)

For role enquiry, please contact Dr Binesh Puthen Veettil at [email protected]

*** Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date. We also reserve the right to close the advertisement early if a sufficient number of qualified applicants is received.

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.

• Flexible, hybrid work arrangements

• 17% Superannuation

• Subsidised onsite parking options

• Extensive training and professional development programs

• Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents

• Onsite vacation care during school holidays

• Discounted health insurance

• Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre

• Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support

• Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.

Applications Close:

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A Place Where You Belong
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