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, Environmental DNA Laboratory.

• Full-time; fixed-term for two years
• 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 Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas
• Applicants are required to hold valid Australian working rights

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 the new and rapidly evolving area of molecular genetics by applying environmental DNA analysis to detect the occurrence of species in water bodies through the genetic analysis of water, soil, or air samples. The incumbent will utilise their experience and specialist expertise in the field of eDNA genetics. The incumbent may have a strong research background or a more applied background.

What you can bring to the role

• Possess a PhD or a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 6 years of professional experience in a related field and demonstrated molecular genetic skills with the ability to apply theoretical and practical expertise to eDNA detection of species in water, soil and air samples
• Demonstrated skills in primer-probe design, real-time PCR and relevant statistical analyses.
• Demonstrated skills in next-generation sequencing laboratory workflows and development of bioinformatic pipelines.
• Demonstrated high-level skills in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation of eDNA and ecological data sets, including their integration, in both field and experimental settings.
• Demonstrated experience managing projects individually or contributing significantly to the management of projects, including preparing funding proposals, sourcing opportunities for projects, developing research partnerships with potential clients, stakeholders and collaborators and managing project workflow.
• Track record of research outputs such as reports and scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals ideally including as a lead author.
• High-level proficiency in computer skills in both statistical software such as R and in processing complex datasets using high-performance computing.
• Experience with organizing and managing field programs or similar logistical operations, including for the collection of samples for genetic analyses.

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:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter
4. Upload a statement addressing the selection criteria as found in the Duty Descriptor

Applications close on Sunday 22nd June 2025 at 11:55 PM AEST.

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.