Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Restoring Resilient Groundcover

About the role

A full-time, 3-year fixed-term position at Academic Level A on the Hawkesbury Campus, with flexible working arrangements. The fellow contributes to the project Drought Resilient Innovation, which strengthens the diversity and functional resilience of native groundcover in grassy woodlands. Salary is $98,611 - $119,137 per year, plus 17% superannuation and leave loading.

Key responsibilities

• Design and deliver glasshouse and field trials testing restoration interventions such as site preparation, soil amendments, planting approaches and drought manipulations.
• Work with investigators and partners to run multi-site restoration trials across the NSW western slopes.
• Analyse ecological data, monitor biodiversity outcomes and co-benefits, and share findings through publications, reports, presentations and stakeholder-facing products.
• Translate evidence into practical restoration guidance and possibly supervise and mentor Higher Degree Research students.
• Maintain rigorous research, data management, ethics and work health and safety practices.

Required profile

• PhD, or progress towards formal completion of a PhD thesis, in ecological restoration, soil ecology or a related field.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of plant and soil ecology in grassy woodlands.
• Demonstrated experience designing, running and managing glasshouse or field restoration trials.
• Experience assessing aboveground and belowground outcomes and undertaking climate-change manipulations.
• Strong communication and organisational skills, with the ability to publish and collaborate with multiple partners.

What we offer

• Staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, and salary sacrifice options for onsite parking.
• Novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Free Employee Assistance Program, annual flu vaccination, Fitness Passport membership and discounted private health cover.
• Discounted onsite childcare at several campuses, subject to centre capacity.

Applications are made through the university's online recruitment system, with screening questions about qualifications and experience. Closing date is 23 November 2026; visa sponsorship is available if required.