• Based in College of Science at the Adelaide City Campus East
• Full-time, fixed term contract until March 2029 with the possibility of further extension, subject to funding
• Salary Range: $82,838 - $111,384 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

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.

Role Summary  

Work that matters 

As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will lead innovative research at the intersection of marine ecology and geochemistry to establish neodymium isotopes (and related isotopic systems) as a transformative new tool for tracking marine biodiversity and biological products such as seafood. You will collect and analyse marine samples, develop global geospatial models, supervise students, and generate knowledge that strengthens the University's international research profile while informing the conservation and management of marine ecosystems.

Curious to learn more? Visit the MARIS Lab website or connect with A/Prof Zoë Doubleday on LinkedIn or Instagram.

The team 

Reporting to the Project Lead and based within the School of Biological Sciences in the College of Science, the Postdoctoral Research Fellow will join a collaborative and multidisciplinary research team exploring innovative approaches to understanding marine biodiversity. The role offers opportunities to work with leading researchers in top institutions, contribute to postgraduate student supervision, and engage in high-impact research within a supportive and high-performing environment.

Visit the AU website to learn more about the School of Biological Sciences. 

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 is ideal for someone who enjoys working across disciplines and contributing to research with real-world impact. You will work alongside scientists, students, technicians, and collaborators from diverse disciplines, balancing laboratory analyses, data modelling and scientific communication in a dynamic and supportive research environment.

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: 

• A PhD in marine ecology, isotope ecology or isotope chemistry, and/or geospatial modelling
• A record of relevant peer-reviewed publications in leading journals, that also highlight analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as emerging leadership in research
• Demonstrated project management and organisational skills, including the ability to initiate, plan and manage projects ensuring milestones are met on time
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and proven ability to work cooperatively in a research team with diverse backgrounds
• Outstanding skills in managing and analyzing large or complex data sets, as well as programming proficiency in R or related software for data analysis and modelling
• Hands-on laboratory experience related to isotope analyses (or related analyses) in biological materials, including sample preparation techniques for mass spectrometry (e.g. TIMS, IRMS, ICPMS, or multi-collector ICPMS)

It would be considered an asset if candidates also have:

• Excellent science communication skills or interest in communicating science to a broad audience via traditional media, public engagement, and online platforms
• Experience working with metal or radiogenic isotope systems
• Experience supervising and mentoring PhD, masters’, or honours students (or other students undertaking research projects)

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 

Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload: 

• your current CV 
• a cover letter

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

Submit your application by 11:30pm Tuesday 1 September 2026

Please note that the role description is not attached to this advertisement as it is currently being finalised.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 493330): 

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