(Level A) $81,293 - $109,307 per annum plus an employer contribution of 17% superannuation applies.

Fixed term, full-time position for 5 years.

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a motivated early-career researcher to contribute to impactful research in molecular genetics supporting the Grains Research and Development Corporation funded Weed Management Initiative under the supervision of Professor Christopher Preston at the University of Adelaide.

As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will play a key role in advancing genetic research in weeds and plants, applying molecular techniques and statistical analysis to understanding the evolution of weed populations under farming systems including herbicide resistance and changes in emergence patterns.

This role is ideal for a candidate with a PhD in Weed Science, Plant Genetics, or a related discipline, who is looking to build their publication record and work within a collaborative, research-driven environment. The position offers a supportive research culture, access to leading facilities, the chance to work on meaningful projects with real-world applications and collaborative opportunities with leading research organisations nationally and internationally. The Weed Management Initiative is a national collaborative project with nodes in Adelaide, Perth, Wagga Wagga and Toowoomba that seeks to reduce the impact of herbicide resistant weeds on Australian grain producers.

Candidates should have strong skills in molecular genetics and statistical analysis, excellent organisational and interpersonal abilities, and a passion for contributing to a team-focused academic setting. Experience in plant culture and a commitment to the university’s core values will be highly regarded.

To be successful you will need:

• Ph.D. in Weed Science, Plant Genetics or related discipline
• Knowledge and experience in molecular genetics techniques
• Demonstrated ability to publish research in peer-reviewed journals
• Ability to use statistical methods to analyse genetic data
• Excellent organisational and time management skills

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 collaborations - 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. Flexible working arrangements are on offer for all roles at the University.

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

If you have the talent, we'll give you the opportunity. Together, let's make history.

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, 25th of August 2025

For further information

For a confidential discussion regarding this position, contact:

Dr Christopher Preston

Professor, Weed Management
School of Agriculture, Food & Wine
Ph: +61 8 8313 7237
e-mail: christopher.preston@adelaide.edu.au

You'll find a full selection criteria below: (If no links appear, try viewing on another device)

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified

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.