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.

We now have an opportunity available for a Researcher to join our team within TropWATER as a Research Officer.

• Full-time; two years fixed-term
• Academic Level A $75,942 - $101,477 per annum + up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits
• Based at the Cairns Nguma-bada campus, Smithfield

About TropWATER

The Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER) is Australia’s premiere tropical aquatic research group and is an amalgamation of aquatic expertise from across James Cook University (JCU). The Centre comprises of over 150 staff and 100 post-graduate students and performs research in fields related to water science, resource management and the ecology of water ecosystems.

About the opportunity

The Research Officer will contribute to an expanding research program within TropWATER. The Research Officer will work within a team with a strong focus on research and the development of marine habitat mapping and monitoring . The position has been established to assist in the delivery of research and monitoring projects across Northern Australia. The successful applicant will work closely with Traditional Owners.

What you can bring to the role

• Possess either a PhD, or a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 6 years of professional experience in a related field.
• Experience contributing significantly to the management of projects, including preparing funding proposals, developing research partnerships and managing project workflow.
• Experience with organising and managing field programs or similar logistical operations.
• Demonstrated research design, data analysis, and interpretation of environmental and/or ecological data.
• Research outputs such as technical reports and scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals.
• Computer skills including the use of Microsoft Office, databases, mapping and modelling software such as R and ArcPro/ QGIS.
• Demonstrated knowledge of coastal and marine habitats as it applies to mapping, monitoring or conservation.

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 cafes and sporting fitness.

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

1. Upload a statement addressing the selection criteria as found in the Duty Descriptor

Applications close on 22 May 2025 at 11:55 PM AEST.

If you would like to learn more about this opportunity please contact Dr Alexandra Carter at [email protected].

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.