Research Fellow - Soil Microbial Ecology

About the opportunity

The Australian Rivers Institute (ARI) is Griffith's flagship institute dedicated to aquatic ecosystem sustainability. We conduct critical research on all aspects of water to support conservation and management efforts.

Our source-to-sea philosophy fosters holistic approaches to global water challenges at scale. By unifying expertise across environmental sciences, health, engineering, social science, First Peoples knowledge and culture, economics and law, we provide solutions for the rehabilitation, sustainable use and conservation of aquatic ecosystems.

Our interdisciplinary research approach also aligns with global treaties and initiatives on sustainability, climate, biodiversity and restoration. Nationally our research supports integrated assessments of natural capital for the nature repair market, focusing on the connectivity of soil, land and water.

Through partnerships with government and industry, our research is connected, innovative and targeted to address issues of water security, contemporary challenges of climate and land use change and issues from microplastics and emerging contaminants.

The Institute has over 200 staff and postgraduate students across the University's Nathan and Gold Coast campuses and hosts the International Water Centre.

The School of Environment and Science maintains an illustrious research position across numerous industry sectors, guiding and informing its learning and teaching. Our school is committed to contributing to the planet's sustainable future by identifying and measuring environmental problems and offering solution-driven approaches. Our research and teaching staff are acknowledged as world industry leaders, working across the broad science and environment disciplines enabling us to develop and deliver comprehensive study programs. We partner with industry, government, and the community to drive innovation and achieve success.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow (Level 1-2) to join our interdisciplinary team (integrated Soil Science, Biogeochemistry, Microbial Ecology, Molecular Microbiology) at the School of Environment and Science and the Australian Rivers Institute.

This Research Fellow will undertake research, in collaboration with research team and external stakeholders, in the areas of soil and environmental biodiversity, functionality, and ecosystem health and resilience using multi-disciplinary approaches of molecular microbiology, biogeochemistry, and spectral technology. This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of soil science, molecular biology and microbial ecology aiming to understand and develop the practical soil health matrix and sound management practices for externally funded projects in Australian and overseas.

The Research Fellow position will have a combined academic profile of 90% research and 10% Service.

In addition to the above, the position will:

• Undertake research on biogeochemical processes and develop sound management practices in both natural and managed ecosystems in response to environmental changes.
• Design and conduct DNA/RNA-based assays (metagenomics, amplicon sequencing, qPCR, transcriptomics) to characterise soil microbial communities and functional genes.
• Analyse large genomic datasets, interpret microbial community structure, and link molecular signatures to ecological processes.
• Publish high-quality research outputs in peer-reviewed journals, contribute to grant applications and project reports, and present findings at national and international conferences.
• Supervise and mentor research students and research assistants.
• Collaborate across disciplines and engage with external stakeholders to co-develop research methodologies, support research group activities, and strengthen the School’s research profile and community impact.

About you

The successful candidate for this position will hold a PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Microbiology, Microbial Ecology, Soil Science, Environmental Sciences or a related field.

You will also have:

• Strong practical experience in DNA/RNA-based assay to characterise the composition and functionalities of soil microbial communities and in analysing genomic datasets and linking molecular signatures to ecological processes.
• A strong track record of publishing high-quality research in peer-reviewed, high-impact journals, with experience presenting findings at national and international conferences.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary research teams, managing competing deadlines while maintaining effective communication with diverse stakeholders.

Applicants must have unrestricted working rights. VISA sponsorship is not available for this position.

What we can offer

This is a fixed term (3 years), full time position primarily based at Griffith University Brisbane South (Nathan). As Griffith is a multi-campus University you may be required to work across other campus locations.

Griffith University’s sites are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

Salary
Depending on experience salary will be offered at either Research Fellow Grade 1 or 2

RF1 range - $91,705.29 - $107,420.93 + 17% superannuation.

RF2 range - $117,076.11 - $139,031.71 + 17% superannuation.

Additional Information

Why join Griffith?

As a values-led organisation, at Griffith University, we've worked hard to create a dynamic and strong organisational culture. We offer:

• Wide range of Learning and Development opportunities

• Mix of on campus and work from home options available and a supportive work environment

• Salary packaging options and corporate health discounts

• Generous leave entitlements including paid parental leave and leave loading

• Support with future learning opportunities through our educational staff assistance scheme

• Opportunities for internal mobility

• Health Safety and Wellbeing initiatives – on campus Gym facilities

At Griffith, we’re committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all - whoever you are and wherever you’re from. If you require any accommodations, we welcome you to let us know so we can work with you to participate fully in our recruitment experience.

Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page. Our University is committed to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive community for all. In alignment with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence (2025), Griffith University includes a declaration as part of the recruitment journey to uphold the values and standards of our community. Griffith University also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of modern slavery. For more information, please refer to Griffith’s Modern Slavery Policy.

How to apply

Please submit your application online and ensure it includes the following:

• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role please refer to the qualifications above and the position description.

• Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details

For further information specifically about this role, please contact Distinguished Professor Chengrong Chen, School of Environment and Science at c.chen@griffith.edu.au.

For application and recruitment advice please reach out to Laura Whitworth, Talent Acquisition Partner on l.whitworth-matthews@griffith.edu.au

Closing date: Sunday 11th October at 11:59pm. All applications must be submitted online.