Lecturer in Physics

Salary: $117,226 – $139,207 plus 17% superannuation plus annual leave loading

Position: Full-time, Continuing

Location: Callaghan Campus

About the Role

The School of Science at the University of Newcastle is seeking a Lecturer in Physics to contribute to teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with a focus on high-quality delivery, curriculum development, and student engagement. The successful candidate will also establish an active research program aligned with existing strengths, contributing to a collaborative and internationally connected research environment. Applicants with expertise in quantum science, and/or who research at the interface with materials science or medicine, are encouraged to apply.

You will join a collegial and inclusive academic community committed to advancing knowledge and delivering impact at regional and global scales.

About you

You are a collaborative and inclusive academic with a strong commitment to excellence in both teaching and research. You value diverse perspectives and contribute positively to a respectful, high-performing environment.

To be successful, you will have:

• A PhD in Physics or equivalent relevant field.
• Demonstrated research excellence and clear capacity to develop as an effective teacher and contributor to service and engagement.
• Strong research track record (relative to opportunity) in Physics in an area that complements existing strengths at the University, particularly in quantum science and/or at the interface with materials science or medicine.
• Demonstrated ability to lead/undertake collaborative research (academic and industry).
• Demonstrated capacity to develop and deliver courses in Physics (including first year courses) in a variety of teaching modes.
• Demonstrated experience in aligning personal and organisational research strategies, and producing research outputs.
• Highly developed interpersonal skills including the ability to participate in a team environment demonstrating clear communication and mutual respect.
• Knowledge of, and experience in adhering to workplace policies and procedures in the areas of work health safety, equity, diversity and promoting a respectful workplace culture.

For the full list of essential and desirable selection criteria, please review the Position Description.

If you’re ready to join a university that’s committed to equity and excellence, and to contribute to a community that values your expertise and vision, we encourage you to apply.

About Us

The College of Engineering, Science and Environment delivers innovative teaching and impactful research across a wide range of disciplines. Within this, the School of Science spans fields including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Environmental Science, and is recognised for research that is well above world standard, characterised by its collaborative, interdisciplinary, and globally relevant nature.

The Discipline of Physics is a collegial, high-performing academic unit with a strong track record in world-class research, innovative teaching, and nationally recognised outreach. Existing research strengths include condensed matter physics, nanomaterials, quantum optics, and biosensors. The Discipline hosts the Centre for Organic Electronics, which partners with industry and government to tackle global challenges in renewable energy, health, and medicine. Close collaborations with the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), as well as two conjoint Medical Physicists, further enhance the Discipline's interdisciplinary impact. These capabilities are complemented by expertise in astrophysics and space science.

Our university

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader with a reputation for excellence in education and research. Ranking in the top 1% of global universities and among the top 40 for impact, our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and create a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the Strategic Plan 2030 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities.

We are proud to be one of the first two Universities in Australia to achieve SAGE Athena Swan Silver Accreditation for gender equity, diversity, and inclusion (GEDI). 

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas and extend respect to Elders past and present. We are committed to strengthening Indigenous higher education and supporting Indigenous students and communities.

For more information click here – The University of Newcastle

What we offer

The university offers a comprehensive and inclusive benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing, career development, and work-life balance for all staff, including:

• 17% superannuation, access to salary packaging options and annual leave loading
• Generous leave entitlements, including:
• Additional University holidays
• Life Leave to support personal and family needs
• Cultural Leave
• Parental leave and support for carers
• Wellbeing and support programs that promote mental, physical, and emotional health
• Career development opportunities, including:
• Structured training and leadership development
• Support for teaching excellence and research
• Opportunities for global collaboration and recognition

For further information on our benefits and perks, please visit our website.

How to Apply

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to be redirected to our website, where you can review the full Position Description and submit your application.  

Your application must include:

• Your ORCID ID.
• A URL link to your University Academic Profile (or equivalent).
• A Cover Letter and Statement (uploaded as a single PDF):
• Cover Letter (max. 1 page) outlining your interest in the role and providing details of 3 referees.
• Statement (max. 4 pages) addressing the Essential and Desirable Criteria, as listed in the position description. 
• Your CV (max. 5 pages) tailored to your discipline

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role. It’s important you read this information to ensure you are providing all the requirements of your application. 

For specific position enquiries, please contact Professor David Pontin, Head of Discipline, School of Science at David.Pontin@newcastle.edu.au. 

Our assessment process

Typically candidates that progress beyond the shortlist stage can expect to undertake the following (minimum) assessment activities as part of the recruitment process:

• Interview (an ‘in person’ interview will be conducted as part of the process)
• Referee checks
• Pre-employment checks as appropriate to the role

Our University is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every member of our community. This commitment is central to our values and our efforts to build a diverse workforce where everyone can thrive.

As part of this, and in alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence 2025, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence risk factors as part of our recruitment processes.

The completion and return of the University’s Gender-based Violence Declaration Form will form part of the pre-employment checks for this position and any offer of employment will be conditional upon review by the University.

Our adherence to the Code is about more than compliance—it’s about living our values. Together, we can ensure our University remains a place where respect, safety, and inclusion are non-negotiable.

Reasonable Adjustments 

If you require any adjustments to the recruitment process to support your application, please let us know. This information will help us understand how best to support you and ensure an equitable and inclusive recruitment process. 

Please be assured that anything you share will be treated respectfully and appropriately. Our goal is to provide the best environment for every candidate to demonstrate their suitable skills and experience.

Please reach out to employment@newcastle.edu.au if you are experiencing any difficulties or would like to discuss reasonable adjustments.

Application close date: 31 July, 2026 at 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you!

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.  

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Birpai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

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