Research Fellow

• Contribute to strengthening research collaborations between The University of Western Australia and the Australian Institute of Marine Science.
• Undertake original scientific research on marine ecosystems
• Full-time appointment on a 3-year fixed term basis.
• Base salary range: Level B, $113,934. – $134,824p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The University of Western Australia (UWA) and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) have a long history of collaboration across various areas of marine research. This is supported by a formal strategic partnership between UWA and AIMS (the AIMS@UWA Alliance) that co-houses researchers from both institutions on the UWA campus in Perth within the purpose-built Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre (IOMRC) building. The AIMS@UWA Alliance aspires to produce an internationally recognised cohort of emergent tropical marine researchers in Western Australia and to direct their work towards the sustainable protection and use of our marine heritage by integrating fundamental and applied research and by leveraging the infrastructure and research strengths of both organisations.

The UWA Oceans Institute (OI) brings together the University of Western Australia’s multidisciplinary research strengths across areas including oceanography, ecology, engineering, resource management and governance to address key ocean challenges. We work with local, state and federal governments, industry and business, research institutions and the community to help generate solutions towards the sustainable use of ocean resources.

AIMS is a world leader in tropical marine science and conducts research supporting environmental sustainability and economic growth in Australia’s tropical oceans.

Our highly skilled and innovative science staff and valued support staff use state-of-the-art infrastructure, alongside strong national and international collaborative relationships to help to build Australia’s national marine science capability.

The position will be a joint appointment between the Australian Institute of Marine Science (Perth) and UWA School of Earth and Oceans Sciences. Both AIMS and the school engage in fundamental and applied research to find solutions for the critical issues facing our oceans, coasts and estuaries. AIMS have facilities in Townsville, Perth and Darwin, and research vessels to support work at sea. The School leads a number of nationally significant research programs and houses several major research facilities, including the Coastal and Offshore Engineering Laboratory, the National Geotechnical Centrifuge Facility, and laboratories and field infrastructure within the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre.

About the opportunity

• Lead research on marine connectivity in north-western WA, focusing on one or more of the following research areas: metacommunity processes, nutrient flows, fish population dynamics, spillovers from protected areas, and/or the impact of management actions on marine biodiversity and its long-term sustainability and resilience.
• Collaborate across oceanography, biology, ecology, and social-ecological systems research, as appropriate given focal subject area, with potential fieldwork and the opportunity to advance marine connectivity analysis within OI and AIMS.

About you

• A PhD in ecology, oceanography, statistics, social-ecological systems research, conservation science, or a closely related field.
• Strong numerical analysis skills and experience in marine and/or coastal systems.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct research across disciplines and a capacity to think broadly about ways to integrate information from different sources.
• Strong track record of research publication relative to opportunity.
• A willingness to supervise higher degree by research students.

Position description: PD [Research Associate] [519010].pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Professor Graeme Cumming at [email protected] or Dr Shaun Wilson [email protected]

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday, 2 February 2025.

This position is open to international applicants.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

About AIMS

The Australian Institute of Marine Science applies science-based solutions to the key challenges facing those who live and work in the waters of northern Australia. AIMS are uniquely placed to provide the expert advice and R&D solutions required to help preserve our marine estate. AIMS have world-class research infrastructure, long-term science knowledge and vast experience of northern Australian waters. Our commitment is to deliver real, measurable, and positive impact to the nation: to improve tropical marine health; create national benefit; and protect coral reefs from climate change.

In addition to the UWA benefits, you will also have access to AIMS facilities, resources and support services.

The Australian Institute of Marine Science | AIMS

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA and AIMS are committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at [email protected] with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.