Research Associate

• Based in the Future Industries Institute at the Mawson Lakes campus
• Full-time,fixed-term contract until 31 August 2029
• Starting Salary: $103,833 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

About you

You are a trusted and authentic professional who builds strong, credible relationships through honesty and accountability. You communicate with clarity and sensitivity, translating complex knowledge for diverse audiences and guiding students with confidence and care. You take initiative, deliver results under pressure, and bring a collaborative, solution-focused approach that motivates others and supports team success.

About the role

Reporting to the Professorial Lead, you will contribute to the research efforts of the Future Industries Institute by undertaking research on the project "Using recycled phosphorus fertilisers to increase farming profitability, resilience, P use efficiency, and sustainability". This project is delivered in collaboration with the University of Queensland, the South Australian Research and Development Institute, and Queensland's Department of Primary Industries.

The path to Adelaide University

We are on an exciting path to Adelaide University as we prepare to open our doors in January 2026. Adelaide University will combine the strengths of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, and we are dedicated to creating an accessible and future-focused educational powerhouse that fosters economic and social wellbeing through ground-breaking research and innovative teaching. You can learn more about Adelaide University HERE and more information will be provided throughout the recruitment process.

To be successful you will need

• Postgraduate qualification in soil science or a related discipline
• Hands-on experience in experimentation in agricultural/environmental chemistry, soil fertility and/or plant nutrition with supporting analytical techniques
• Strong research track record with publications in leading journals and presentations at relevant forums
• Excellent communication skills and ability to liaise effectively with students, colleagues and external partners
• Skilled in research design, data analysis (SPSS, Genstat, R, Python), and able to manage competing priorities independently and in teams

Why join us?

We value workplace diversity and are committed to providing a supportive, inclusive, and respectful work environment for all people. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, women, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, people of culturally diverse backgrounds and people with disability.  

Working at the University will provide you with a wide range of benefits. These include:

• Access to great personal development opportunities
• Generous superannuation contributions of 17%
• Flexible working conditions
• Employee assistance and development programs
• A variety of leave arrangements

Be part of a University for the future

For a copy of the position description and to apply, please visit Working at UniSA. The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.  

Please address your cover letter to Laura Gomes, Consultant: Recruitment Central. For further information about the position or the recruitment process, please contact Recruitment Central on or via email at using job reference number 7388. Please note applications will not be accepted via email and must be uploaded via the Working at UniSA Portal.

Applications close: 11.30pm Sunday 9 November 2025

We are committed to providing an equitable and barrier free recruitment process and encourage you to share any support, adjustments and/or access requirements you have by contacting our Recruitment Central team. Anything you tell us will be kept completely confidential.