- Join a world-leading marine ecology research team investigating climate-driven change in Australia's iconic Great Southern Reef.
- Conduct impactful field-based research on kelp forests and temperate reef ecosystems across Western Australia.
- Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 3 years.
- Base salary range: Level A step 8, $112,371 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.
About the area
The School of Biological Sciences is a large, multidisciplinary School with more than 80 academic staff delivering world-class education and research programs to approximately 600 undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students and supervising around 100 PhD candidates.
The Wernberg Lab, based at the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre, is internationally recognised for research on temperate marine ecosystems and kelp forests. The group investigates biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and climate change impacts across Australia's Great Southern Reef using multidisciplinary approaches combining field ecology, genomics, ecophysiology, ecological modelling and social science.
About the opportunity
- Join the internationally recognised Wernberg Lab and contribute to cutting-edge research on climate-driven change in kelp forests and temperate reef ecosystems across Australia's Great Southern Reef.
- Undertake field-based research across southwestern Australia, investigating biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and the responses of marine species and habitats to environmental change.
- Coordinate and support long-term reef monitoring programs, including ecological surveys, data collection, data management, analysis and interpretation.
- Contribute to high-quality research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, grant applications and collaborative research activities.
- Support scientific boating and occupational diving operations and help deliver safe and effective field programs in accordance with University and regulatory requirements.
- Assist in supervising and mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students while contributing to science communication, outreach activities and the broader academic life of the School.
About you
- A PhD in marine ecology or a closely related discipline, with a demonstrated commitment to high-quality research and publication outcomes.
- Strong knowledge and research experience in temperate reef ecology, including ecological survey techniques and quantitative data analysis.
- Demonstrated experience in kelp forest and temperate reef research, including community assessments, ecosystem processes and species identification.
- Experience conducting scientific boating and scuba-based fieldwork, with a sound understanding of relevant safety standards, legislation and best practices.
- Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current Occupational SCUBA certification, Coxswain Grade 2 NC certification (or ability to obtain), and a current driver's licence will be required by the successful applicant. Candidates must also have the ability to meet the physical and operational requirements of field-based marine research.
Position description: Postdoctoral Research Associate (Temperate Marine Ecology) - 523680.pdf
To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Thomas Wernberg at [email protected]
For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Zen Huang at [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 Wednesday, 29 July 2026
This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia
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.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
UWA is 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.
