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 passionate early career Researcher to join our team within the College of Science and Engineering as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Land and Sea Management.
- Full-time; fixed-term to August 2028
- Academic Level A or B $75,942 - $125,774 per annum + up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits
- Based at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas
- Level of appointment and remuneration 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, Engineering and Veterinary Science.
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.
Our postgraduate courses offer professionals opportunities to develop their abilities and advance their careers and our PhD program has launched a thousand research careers.
About the opportunity
The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will support the research and engagement activities of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence for Indigenous and Environmental Histories and Futures (CHIEF), working across eight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partner Organisations (IPO) and eight University nodes and in collaboration with Chief, Partner and Associate Investigators.
This role will contribute to the "Land and Sea Management" research stream of CIEHF, addressing research priorities identified through on-Country co-design frameworks. By integrating Indigenous Knowledge, scientific data, and historical insights, this research stream aims to develop best practices for land and sea management that benefit both Indigenous communities and the environment. The fellow will apply their expertise in spatial analysis, remote sensing and geospatial modelling to support healthy Land and Sea Country management now and into the future, centred in Aboriginal- and Torres Strait Islander-led approaches.
What you can bring to the role
- A PhD or equivalent qualification in environmental science, management, and/or geography or related discipline.
- Expertise in spatial analysis, remote sensing and geospatial modelling applied to land and sea management.
- Ability to engage in co-design processes to identify community research priorities, evidenced by collaborative research outcomes with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and/or communities.
- Demonstrated excellence in research, relative to career opportunity, leading to an emerging publication record and research income portfolio.
- Demonstrated ability to efficiently organise and implement research projects, and conduct collaborative, transdisciplinary research within diverse teams.
- Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
- Highly developed oral, written and interpersonal communication skills, with an ability to relate to people from all backgrounds, and the motivation to contribute to engagement activities.
- Experience in the supervision of internships, honours and/or postgraduate students or equivalent (desirable).
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
Thinking of applying?
This position strongly encourages applications from Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and welcomes applications from candidates in the final stages of their PhD who may be interested in structured mentoring pathways.
The College of Science and Engineering is dedicated to ensuring a fair, equitable, and inclusive selection process. We recognise that some applicants may face additional barriers or challenges that have impacted, or continue to impact, their career trajectory. We encourage candidates who may not meet all of the specified criteria to apply and demonstrate their potential. When assessing suitability for the role, the selection panel takes into account both your potential and past performance relative to the opportunities you have had.
If you require any assistance in preparing your application, please reach out to the Chairperson for the position to discuss your needs. Should you be invited for an interview, please inform the Chairperson of any accessibility requirements you may have, so that we can ensure these needs are accommodated.
Further information on inclusion at James Cook University can be found here Inclusion at JCU - Careers at JCU - JCU Australia
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
Applications close on 22 May 2025 at 11:55 PM AEST.
If you would like to learn more about this opportunity please contact Associate Professor Alana Grech at alana.grech@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.