Research Associate

• $104,917 - $112,487 (ALA6-ALA8) plus 17% superannuation
• Full-time, fixed term, 1 year position
• Based at our Bentley Campus

Job Reference:

About the role

An exciting opportunity exists for an Analytical Chemist/Organic and Isotope Geochemist and Geomicrobiologist/ Early life to play a significant role in the WA-Organic and Isotope Geochemistry Centre (WA-OIGC) and School of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) at Curtin University.

We are seeking a motivated independent individual (Early Career Researcher) to carry out world class research in the areas of biomarkers/biomolecules and geomicrobiology/early life in exceptional soft tissue fossil preservation from a global suite of samples from the geological record.

You will research under the direction of ARC Laureate Fellow Prof. Kliti Grice, organic geochemical, paleontological and energy related researchers and students within WA-OIGC and EPS and across schools.

The ideal applicant will be an expert in Earth Sciences and have significant experience in analytical chemistry and biomarker analysis (e.g. GC-MS, GC-MRM, LC-MS, compound specific isotope analyses, GCXGC TOFMS, TOF-SIMS, imaging techniques) and a good understanding of plant/ microbial processes and early life. In addition, you will have an excellent record of publication in the field of organic geochemistry and plant evolution, microbiology/ early life.

Who we're looking for (Selection Criteria):

Essential:

• Strong analytical chemistry skills e.g. LC-MS and/ or GC X GCTOFMS or site-specific isotopes.
• A doctoral qualification in organic geochemistry
• Demonstrated record of PhD and undergraduate scholar supervision.
• An established record of research outputs in international peer reviewed journals.
• An established record of grant success relative to opportunity.
• A demonstrated ability to attract funding.
• A demonstrated high level of communication and interpersonal skills with a commitment to the development of collegial and supportive working environment and the ability to interact with students and staff with diverse and/or cultural backgrounds.
• Demonstrated record as journal reviewer.

Role Requirements:

• As this is a fixed-term contract, you will require current work rights in Australia that match the tenure of this role. We will also consider international candidates who are eligible for a relevant visa.
• Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin's satisfaction

Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace:

At Curtin University, we are passionate about fostering an inclusive, diverse and welcoming environment in which all people feel respected, valued and safe. Curtin is dedicated to promoting gender equity and inclusivity in all areas. We are proud of our achievements to date and recognise that there is that there is more to do to improve employment outcomes for women and people of diverse gender identities, particularly in STEMM disciplines.

As an Athena SWAN accredited institution, we celebrate diversity and actively work to advance the representation of women and gender-diverse people in STEMM areas and empower individuals so they can thrive in their careers through a range of supportive initiatives, including leadership training, mentorship for early career progression and promotion, networking opportunities, and other professional development resources.

As reflected in the Athena Swan Charter, gender equality is a broader issue that extends beyond barriers affecting women alone, and we are committed to addressing these challenges holistically.

Additionally, we offer staff a competitive remuneration and benefits package, including but not limited to:

• 17% superannuation, plus a variety of salary packaging options.
• Paid Parental leave (26 weeks for the primary caregiver and 3 weeks for non-primary), personal leave (14 days) and annual leave (20 days)
• Enjoy 12 Public Holidays each year (including Easter Tuesday), and 2 extra University Days over the Christmas/New Year Period (see EBA 51.1 and 51.9).
• Breastfeeding facilities and campus-based childcare (where priority of placement is given to Curtin staff and students)
• Flexible work arrangements including return to work provisions
• On-campus medical centre
• Academic Carer Support Scheme and other diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives detailed via the below link.

We believe that diverse perspectives fuel innovation and drive excellence, and we encourage women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of diverse gender, sex and sexuality, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to join us in shaping the future of STEMM together and making tomorrow better.

To find out more about our comprehensive diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives, please visit

About Curtin University

We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. For more information, please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page -

What We Offer You:

Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more.

For more reasons to work at Curtin, please visit

Join Us

If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:

• Up to date Resume
• A document addressing the selection criteria for the role (noted above)

If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, please contact our careers team on or option 3,1), quoting the reference number. Please note applications will not be accepted via this email address.

Applications close: Thursday, 2 October 2025

Disclaimer: Please note that there is no standardised time for the closing of adverts on the specified date. Therefore, we recommend submitting your application ahead of this deadline. Late applications will not be considered, and only successful candidates will be contacted.

Please note we are not accepting applications from recruitment agencies at this time.

Curtin reserves the right at its sole discretion to withdraw from the recruitment process, not to make an appointment, or to appoint by invitation, at any time. We reserve the right to remove the advert earlier than the date on the advert.

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