Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Crop Phenotyping

• School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability/Analytics for the Australian Grains Industry (AAGI)

• Full-time fixed-term research focused position for up to 3 years

• Base salary will be in the range $78,871.35 - $105,004.02 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A)

• Based at our St Lucia Campus with occasional travel to Gatton Campus when required

About This Opportunity 

The Australian Plant Phenomics Facility (APPF), established under the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) in 2009, provides leadership in plant phenomics research to boost agricultural productivity in Australia's diverse environment. UQ joined APPF in 2024, offering advanced research infrastructure for phenotyping plants in both controlled and field environments.

Under broad direction of the UQ Node director, the Postdoctoral Research Fellow will conduct research, manage a small technical team, and collaborate with stakeholders to develop plant phenotyping methods using 3D imaging, multispectral data, and crop modelling.

Key responsibilities will include: 

• Provide high level technical advice to stakeholders on a range of functions including experimental design and implementation, risk assessments and the general operation of all phenotyping tools, equipment and software used at APPN-UQ node 

• Lead and coordinate the design and conducting of qualitative and quantitative research studies and the analysis of data as requested by clients of APPN-UQ.  

• Develop new research methodologies in phenotyping via conduct of experimental work and related activities, and analysis of experimental outputs to prepare data for research publication.  

• Ensure all users have been inducted and provided the required training and support to work in APPN and that training materials for equipment are readily available and updated  

• Manage and execute/oversee the deployment of UAVs and ground-based phenotyping platforms for research data collection in research trials. 

• Complete general administration duties associated with APPF including the preparation of reports, ensuring safe working practices, WHS requirements and compliance protocols for regulatory requirements are met  

• Competency in troubleshooting technical issues with advanced agricultural equipment and technology platforms. 

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged.

At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation. UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.

As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad:  from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

About You

• PhD in field crop agronomy, physiology, genetics, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and extensive experience (minimum 4 years) in plant phenomics.

• Demonstrated expertise in designing, managing, and analyzing field crop trials in a research farm or institutional environment, applying knowledge in agronomy, physiology, or genetics.

• Proficiency in statistical programming languages (R, Python) and experience with statistical and crop simulation models for analyzing large datasets.

• Proven track record of research publication in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

• Advanced knowledge of precision agriculture technologies and experience in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies for collecting, analyzing, and reporting high-volume, complex data.

• Strong communication, interpersonal, and consultative skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams and represent research to industry, government, and professional bodies.

Desirable

• Remote Pilot’s License (RePL) and tractor operation license, or willingness to obtain upon appointment.

• Experience in mentoring students and managing laboratory equipment, with a solid understanding of WHS and regulatory requirements.

• Excellent problem-solving abilities and leadership experience in research or teaching environments.

Work Rights:

You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

 
Questions? 

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Scott Chapman at [email protected]. For application queries, please contact [email protected] stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
 

Want to Apply? 

All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

• Resume

• Cover letter

• Responses to the ‘About You’ section

Other Information 

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who don’t meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

We know one of our strengths as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to [email protected] for accessibility support or adjustments.

Applications close November 10th 2024 at 11.00pm AEST (R-44356). Please note that interviews have been tentatively scheduled for week commencing November 25th 2024.