• Based in the College of Science located at the Waite Campus
• Full time, fixed term position available until August 2030
• Salary Range:  $81,293 - $109,307 per annum (+ 17% Superannuation)

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive. 

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters 

As a GRDC Grant Funded Research Fellow (A), you will contribute to the GRDC Project “Innovative phenotyping for enhanced root traits to unlock soil productivity” (2026–2030).

This GRDC project directly addresses this gap by providing pre-breeders with powerful new tools to assess and enhance root traits critical for water, nutrient acquisition, and resilience to (sub)soil constraints. The successful candidate will apply innovative root phenotyping methodologies for a range of grain crops, using non-destructive approaches such as Laser Ablation Tomography and Ethylene Insensitivity Screening. This position will have access to advanced infrastructure and expertise on root trait performance from the University of Nottingham, and the opportunity to build this capability in Australia and extend its application to Australian grain varieties and growing environments.

Curious to learn more? Explore the full role description below to discover more about this opportunity.  

The team 

Reporting to the Chief Investigator, the successful candidate will join a collaborative research team including researchers, technical officers, and PhD students, working across the disciplines of root biology, imaging technologies, artificial intelligence, plant breeding, and soil science. The team is focused on implementing innovative, interdisciplinary research to enable the characterisation of root system architecture and improve our understanding of subsoil constraints on root development and productivity.

Visit the AU website to learn more about the School of Agriculture, Food & Wine.

Our people  

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role suits an individual who thrives in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment. You will work alongside a diverse community of colleagues, access state-of-the-art facilities, and contribute to a broad range of teaching activities—ensuring your work remains engaging, meaningful, and impactful.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience 

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience: 

Essential minimum criteria

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in agricultural science, soil science, environmental science or equivalent qualifications or research experience.
• Track record of publication of research in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals relative to opportunity.
• Knowledge and hands-on experience in designing and undertaking independent research with a focus on soil-plant interactions and root system architecture, including field and laboratory sampling, experiments and analysis.
• Ability to deliver project research milestones, objectives and work programs in full and on time, within budget and to an industry partner’s satisfaction.
• Proven ability to engage and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a wide range of stakeholders to achieve project outcomes.

Desired characteristics

• Experience with assessing the response of root traits in compacted soils
• Knowledge of the challenges and limitations of 3D imaging of root anatomy.
• Willingness to travel overseas to conduct research at an international research institute on a regular basis.
• Experience with delivering industry-relevant information (e.g. presentations, GRDC updates)
• Capability to effectively work with research-support staff.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity 

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. 

Launch your future with Adelaide University now 

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload: 

• your current CV 
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role 
• Selection Criteria document

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address. 

Submit your application by 11:30pm Sunday 5^th July 2026

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

For further information about this opportunity, please contact: 

Georgia Viola
Talent Acquisition Adviser  
+61 8 8302 1700| careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au  

Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.