Adelaide University 
Roseworthy, Australia Offer Summary
Adelaide University seeks a Research Officer for the Climate Resilient Sheep Systems project at its Roseworthy Campus. This full-time, fixed-term position spans 24 months with an annual salary range of $84,498 to $93,955 plus 17% superannuation. The role supports research aimed at enhancing sheep resilience and productivity in low-rainfall farming systems under drought conditions. Responsibilities include conducting fieldwork and farm trials across South Australia, collecting livestock and plant data, maintaining pastures, monitoring animal welfare, and preparing progress reports. Reporting to Associate Professor William van Wettere within the Davies Livestock Research Centre, the ideal candidate possesses experience in laboratory and field experiments, livestock handling (particularly sheep), pasture knowledge, and data analysis. Applications from Australian or New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, and those with legal work rights are welcome. The deadline for submission is 11:30 pm on Thursday, 29 October 2026.
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Project Description
At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.
We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.
Work that matters
The Climate Resilient Sheep Systems project aims to improve the resilience and productivity of sheep in low-rainfall farming systems. Led by Adelaide University and Murdoch University, in collaboration with researchers, farmers and industry partners across Australia, the project focuses on developing practical solutions to strengthen the sustainability of sheep and pasture systems under drought conditions.
As a Research Officer, you will play a hands-on role in this important research, supporting fieldwork and farm trials across South Australia. Your responsibilities will include collecting and measuring data from livestock and plant species, establishing and maintaining pastures and shrub plantings, monitoring livestock health and welfare, and maintaining research equipment and accurate project records. You will also contribute to data collation, progress reports and project milestone documentation to support the successful delivery of the project.
This varied role offers the opportunity to contribute to research addressing key challenges facing the agricultural industry, helping develop practical approaches to improving agricultural productivity and climate resilience in Australia's low-rainfall farming regions.
Learn more about the Climate Resilient Sheep Systems project.
Curious to learn more? Explore the full role description above to discover more about this opportunity.
The team
Reporting to Associate Professor William van Wettere, you will work within the Davies livestock Research centre in the School of Animal and Veterinary Science, collaborating with academic staff, students and external research partners. Visit the AU website to learn more about Davies Livestock Research Centre and The School of Animal and Veterinary Science.
Our people
Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys a mix of outdoor fieldwork, practical livestock care, plant care and maintenance, and research activities. You will work collaboratively across farm trials and research settings, with opportunities to develop your technical skills, contribute to innovative agricultural research and engage with a diverse range of colleagues and external partners.
Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.
Experience
To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University, Tirkangkaku is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Launch your future with Adelaide University, Tirkangkaku now
Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:
The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.
Submit your application by 11:30pm Thursday 29 October 2026
For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 493625):
Simone Patterson
Talent Acquisition Adviser
+61 8 8302 1700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au
Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.
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