James Cook University (JCU) is creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally and globally.

As part of a major investment into advancing our understanding of the distribution and status of the world’s ecosystems, JCU’s Global Ecology Lab is partnering with the Group on Earth Observations Secretariat to advance the development of the Global Ecosystems Atlas initiative. We have two post-doctoral research fellow positions available for passionate emerging and experienced researchers to join our team, based in JCU’s College of Science and Engineering, to contribute broadly to this initiative.

Full-time; fixed-term for two years.

Salary $94,829 - $129,607 per annum plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits

Based at JCU’s Bebegu Yumba campus, in Townsville, tropical North Queensland.

Applications from candidates with current Australian working rights will be preferred.

Level of appointment will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

About the College of Science and Engineering

The College of Science and Engineering is a comprehensive provider of world class research and undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a range of science, technology and engineering disciplines.

As part of the Academy, the College of Science and Engineering promotes, supports and administers quality teaching, hands-on experiences, industry placements and research at JCU in the areas of Marine Biology & Aquaculture, Zoology and Ecology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Information Technology, Physical Sciences, and Engineering.

We are recognised globally for our excellence in research and we strive to ensure that we bring research directly into our classrooms. Our diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs are united by a commitment to excellent teaching, experiential learning opportunities utilising our world class infrastructure and natural laboratories, and a commitment to diversity and respect for difference.

About the opportunity

The Postdoctoral Research Fellow(s) will develop their research profile by applying their expertise to a collaborative international initiative to map the distribution of the world’s ecosystems. The appointee(s) will work with Associate Professor Nicholas Murray, the James Cook University Global Ecology Lab, and project partners to advance the Global Ecosystems Atlas initiative (www.globalecosystemsatlas.org). Specifically, the appointee(s) will apply skills in geospatial science, spatial modelling, ecology and/or remote sensing to contribute to the development and testing of quantitative ecosystem distribution models to advance our understanding of the extent of ecosystems at national to global scales. The research fellow(s) will develop and lead scientific publications relating to the global distribution and conservation of ecosystems, and conduct independent research in spatial ecology, conservation science, or remote sensing.

The research fellow(s) will be expected to develop their emerging research profile, including networking internationally with government and NGO project partners, and supervise or co-supervise postgraduate students and research assistants as required. They are also expected to contribute to JCU’s high quality research environment via lab meetings, professional development activities, contributions to scientific publications and other activities.

What you can bring to the role

You will have a PhD or equivalent in the fields of ecology, geography or conservation science, complemented by a strong track record of outstanding research. You will be able to demonstrate skills in quantitative ecology or remote sensing, including a proven ability to analyse spatial data. Expertise in spatial modelling, land cover dynamics and/or ecosystem dynamics is essential. You will be skilled in research data management and the use of collaborative research technologies. Your communication and interpersonal skills will enable you to work effectively within a research team, communicate widely with a range of collaborators, foster relationships across a range of national and international stakeholders, and contribute to a vibrant research culture. You should also be able to demonstrate success in project management, working independently and as part of a dynamic research environment.

Why JCU?

JCU offers a culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth. Employee wellbeing is at the core of our values, and we support our people through the provision of flexible working conditions and many other benefits including;

A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper

5 weeks of annual recreation leave and 15 days of paid sick/personal/carers leave per year

Cultural leave and Flexible working options

Attractive options for salary packaging

Fitness Passport

Employee Assistance Program

Professional development support

Well-equipped campus facilities including medical, cafes, gym and childcare.

What matters to us at JCU?

Our People – Our staff, students, and the communities we serve

Our Education – Knowledge has the power to change lives

Our Place – the Tropics and beyond

Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation

How to apply and contact details

Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.

Click the ‘apply’ button where you will be asked to complete an application form or alternatively, please apply directly via the via the JCU careers page and follow the below steps:

Complete the application form

Upload your current resume

Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience, including a response to each of the selection criteria listed in the Academic Duty Descriptor.

Applications close on Wednesday 2nd April at 11:55 PM AEST.

For any enquiries about these positions, please contact Associate Professor Nicholas Murray (nicholas.murray@jcu.edu.au).

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.