Research Associate in Sustainable Agronomy
(Level A) $98, 574- $105,611 plus 17% superannuation
Fixed Term contact | 36 months
Full Time Opportunity
The School of Agriculture, Food & Wine, part of the Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology at the University of Adelaide, is a leading centre for research, education, and innovation in agricultural science. Located at the Waite Campus, the School boasts exceptional infrastructure and resources to support world-class scientific advancement.
Are you passionate about advancing sustainable agriculture through innovative science?
We are seeking a highly motivated researcher to drive new initiatives in plant-soil interaction science, with a focus on sustainable agronomy. Areas of research may include, but are not limited to, crop nutrition, crop physiology, plant-soil dynamics, and broadacre agronomy. The successful candidate will be expected to apply innovative, impactful research approaches with both scientific and practical relevance, fostering collaboration across disciplines and engaging with industry and government partners on a national and international scale.
About the Role
This exciting opportunity focuses on crop-microbe interactions, particularly in Australian dryland cropping systems. You will be part of a leading research group investigating the role of microbiomes and beneficial microbial inoculants in enhancing crop productivity and reducing chemical inputs.
Working under the guidance of Dr Yi Zhou, Senior Research Fellow in Sustainable Agriculture, you will:
- Conduct field-based and laboratory research on plant-microbe interactions.
- Develop innovative approaches to sustainable cropping systems.
- Collaborate with industry leaders, such as SARDI and CSIRO.
- Supervise Honours, Masters and PhD students.
- Contribute to peer-reviewed publications and competitive grant applications.
Selection Criteria
- PhD with a focus on agronomy, plant-soil interactions or related areas.
- Knowledge and experience in conducting field experimentation and assessment of plant and soil systems.
- Evidence of a publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
- Evidence of collaboration and negotiation skills, e.g. with industry, growers and/or local, national, or international organisations.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- Excellent personal and interpersonal skills and capacity to work effectively internally across the University community.
- Willingness to supervise PhD, Masters and/or Honours students.
- A current Australian driving licence.
Desirable
- Knowledge and experience in legume agronomy (e.g. rhizobia or N fixation) and/or Australian dryland cropping systems.
***Please note this position will require you to obtain a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check***
The path to Adelaide University
We are on an exciting path to Adelaide University as we prepare to open our doors in January 2026. Adelaide University will combine the strengths of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, and we are dedicated to creating an accessible and future-focused educational powerhouse that fosters economic and social wellbeing through ground-breaking research and innovative teaching. You can learn more about Adelaide University HERE and more information will be provided throughout the recruitment process.
Enjoy an outstanding career environment
We offer a uniquely rewarding workplace. The size, breadth and quality of our education and research programs - including significant industry, government and community collaboration - offers you vast scope and opportunity for a long, fulfilling career.
It also enables us to attract high-calibre people in all facets of our operations, ensuring you will be surrounded by talented colleagues, many world-leading. Our work's cutting-edge nature - not just in your own area, but across virtually the full spectrum of human endeavour - provides a constant source of inspiration.
Our culture is one that welcomes all and embraces diversity consistent with our Staff Values and Behaviour Framework and our Values of integrity, respect, collegiality, excellence and discovery. We firmly believe that our people are our most valuable asset, so we work to grow and diversify the skills, knowledge and capability of all our staff.
We embrace flexibility as a key principle to allow our people to manage the changing demands of work, personal and family life.
In addition, we offer a wide range of attractive staff benefits. These include: salary packaging; flexible work arrangements; high-quality professional development programs and activities; and an on-campus health clinic, gym and other fitness facilities.
Learn more at: adelaide.edu.au/jobs
Your faculty's broader role
The Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology is a multidisciplinary hub of cutting-edge teaching and research. Many of its academic staff are world leaders in their fields and graduates are highly regarded by employers. The Faculty actively partners with innovative industries to solve problems of global significance.
Learn more at: set.adelaide.edu.au
How to Apply
Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to be taken through to the online application form. Please ensure you submit a cover letter, resume, and upload a document that includes your responses to all of the selection criteria for the position as contained in the position description or selection criteria document.
***Applications close 11:55pm, Sunday 25th May***
The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.
For further information
For a confidential discussion regarding this position, contact:
Dr. Yi Zhou
Senior Research Fellow in Sustainable Agriculture
E: yi.zhou@adelaide.edu.au
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Female applicants, people with a disability and/or and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who meet the requirements of this position are strongly encouraged to apply. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application.
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