Research Fellow - Machine Learning for LEO Satellite Communications

- Salary Package: $112,550 - $120,621 (Level A6-A8) per annum, plus 17% employer’s superannuation and annual leave loading. Appointment will be commensurate with qualifications, experience and research track record
- Appointment Type: Full-time (35 hours per week), fixed-term appointment for 2 years, with a possibility of further renewal subject to funding
- Location: Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

The Role

Macquarie University’s School of Engineering is seeking a Research Fellow to help develop the next generation of intelligent, self-organising satellite networks. The position contributes to “Brain-in-Space: A Machine Learning Framework for Self-Organizing Low-Earth Orbit Satellite Networks”, funded by the Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund.

You will investigate how low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites can operate as intelligent agents, learning to make decisions and coordinate their actions as orbital and traffic conditions change. Your research will combine machine learning, mathematical modelling and algorithm design to enable autonomous operation of large satellite constellations. You will also develop an open-source simulation and benchmarking platform to evaluate these methods under realistic network conditions.

You will work closely with Dr Hazer Inaltekin at Macquarie University and international collaborators including Associate Professor Wonjae Shin at Korea University, Professor Jungwoo Lee at Seoul National University, and Professor Vincent Poor at Princeton University.

Within the project’s objectives, you will have considerable scope to shape the research direction, develop your own ideas and lead research contributions. The role offers opportunities to publish in leading journals and conferences, contribute to postgraduate supervision, and build your research profile through international collaboration. You will also contribute to technical reporting and collaborative research activities across the project team.

Selection Criteria:

Essential:

• A PhD in electrical and electronic engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, or a related discipline.

• A strong research publication record in relevant international journals and conferences, commensurate with career stage.

• Strong mathematical and algorithmic capability, with demonstrated experience applying machine learning to research problems

• Strong programming skills in Python and/or MATLAB

• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills

• Demonstrated ability to plan and manage research activities independently, prioritise tasks and meet project deadlines

• Commitment to collaborative research and teamwork

Desirable:

• Knowledge of information theory and communication theory relevant to wireless communication systems

• Prior research experience in satellite communications or              networking, particularly low Earth orbit (LEO) systems

• Experience applying machine learning to sequential decision-making or multi-agent coordination

• Experience developing, validating and documenting research simulation software

• Interest in and ability to contribute to the supervision and mentoring of postgraduate research students

 

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.

How to Apply

To be considered for this role, please submit:

 

• Up to date Resume, including the publication list

• A Cover Letter addressing the above selection criteria (not exceeding 2 pages)

• Up to date Referees

Role specific enquiries:  Dr Hazer Inaltekin at hazer.inaltekin@mq.edu.au.

Applications Close:  Friday 30th of October 2026 at 11:59pm (AEST).

International applicants are encouraged to apply.  VISA sponsorship available for the successful candidate, subject to eligibility.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering at Macquarie University has a goal to increase the engagement of women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from diverse backgrounds in STEMM roles. Applications are considered holistically, and candidates are encouraged to apply even if their experience does not meet each individual selection criterion.

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:

30/10/2026 11:59 PM

​
A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.