Post Doctoral Researcher

About The Team

This role sits within the School of Agricultural Sciences, part of the College of Environmental and Life Sciences. The Sustainable Land Management Group is part of SoilsWest, which leads soil research and outreach at Murdoch University.

Collaboration with research centres supports strategic goals. Key centres include:

• WA State Agricultural Biotechnology Centre
• Centre for Crop and Food Innovation
• Centre for Sustainable Farming Systems
• Centre for Animal Production and Welfare

Your New Role  

A Post-Doctoral Researcher is expected to advance scholarly research and professional expertise. Within the School of Agriculture, the appointee will support a Climate Smart project focused on developing and testing innovative soil technologies (ISTs) through field and glasshouse trials in WA. The role requires strong communication skills for engagement with researchers, industry, and stakeholders, along with a demonstrated ability to attract external research funding.

Your key responsibilities will include –

• Contribute to the Climate Smart Agriculture project through research, field trials, and stakeholder engagement within the Sustainable Land Management group.
• Build a research profile in soil and crop management by publishing in peer-reviewed journals and securing external funding.
• Support research coordination, student supervision, and broader School and University activities, including grant applications and administrative duties.

 Please refer to the Position Description for further details.

What We Offer You

This Fixed Term (2 Years) | Full Time (37.5 hours per week) attracts a remuneration of $78,348.00– $105, pro rata) plus 17% employer superannuation contributions.   

You'll join a dynamic and talented team where diversity and innovation thrive. Our Silver-tier status in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), awarded in 2025, reflects our commitment to LGBTIQA+ inclusion, equity, and creating a safe, welcoming environment for all. We strive to be the university of choice for First Nations peoples, honouring Indigenous knowledge. Sustainability is central to our community and guided by clear, confident leadership, we are working toward an ambitious future with goals of net zero emissions and zero waste by 2030.

As well as the flexibility to maintain a work life balance, our staff enjoy a vibrant, natural campus with world-class facilities, along with a variety of benefits, including:

• Periodic salary increases between 1 January 2026 to 1 July 2026 totalling an 4% increase
• Flexible work arrangements
• Cultural Load and allowance - providing up to $8,944 per year to First Nations employees who are contributing cultural knowledge and perspectives beyond the scope of their role
• Indigenous Language Allowance
• Salary packaging options – such as purchasing leave, gym membership, car parking permit
• Employee Assistance Program
• On-campus services and facilities, such as a Childcare Centre, Gym, Vet Hospital, and Chiropractic Clinic

For further information, check out our benefits and services page

Join us

Please apply online via the Apply Now button, along with submitting the following documents to support your application -

• A cover letter including a statement addressing the selection criteria (with reference to the Position Description)
• Your most recent resume (CV)

What you'll bring to the role:

• PhD in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Experience in soil chemistry, soil amendments (e.g. biochar, microbial treatments, nano lime), field instrumentation, and managing field/glasshouse trials.
• Proficient in data analysis and modelling using tools like R, Python, or similar software.
• Proven ability to conduct high-quality research, contribute to competitive grant-funded projects, and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across interdisciplinary teams and multiple states.

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a criminal record check in accordance with the University's Criminal Record Screening Procedure and Employee Background Checks Procedure.

Applicants should refer to the Position Description for further details on the work requirements, duties, skills and experience required for this role. Applications sent by post or email will not be accepted.

Please note visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants are expected to have current and valid work rights in Australia.  

Please see the Applicant Guide for more information. Applicants who have support or access requirements, are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application, to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process.

Contact Us

For enquiries about the opportunity on offer please reach out to Wendy Vance, Senior Lecturer, and quote JR104493 as the reference.

Applications Close on 18th November 2025 (11:59pm AWST)

The University reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement at any time.

Murdoch University acknowledges the different perspectives, skills and experience that people from different backgrounds bring to strengthen its workforce. Murdoch University is committed to enhancing diversity in all its forms and strongly encourages suitably qualified candidates from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, people with disability, people of CaLD background and people of diverse genders to apply for this important position.

Murdoch University values workplace diversity, promotes inclusion, and strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, women, and individuals with disability. Applicants who have support or access requirements, are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application, to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process.