Jobs and Careers

• Provide scientific leadership in abalone biology and ecology
• Lead major field research programs
• Full Time, Ongoing role based in Hobart (Taroona)

About the opportunity

The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies is looking for a Benthic Invertebrate Field Biologist to join their Dive Fisheries Team.

The Benthic Invertebrate Field Biologist (Abalone) will play a central role in delivering high-quality, objective, and trusted science to support the sustainable management of Tasmania’s abalone fishery.

Working closely with, and complementing, the Abalone Stock Assessment Scientist, this role leads the field, ecological, and experimental research required to generate robust biological evidence for assessment and management.

As our new Field Biologist, you will lead scientific diving programs, remote sampling, biological monitoring, and experimental studies focused on abalone populations, habitats, and environmental drivers of productivity.

This role is part of the Sustainable Marine Research Collaboration Agreement (SMRCA) between the University of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Government.

What you’ll do:

• Lead major field research programs focused on abalone.
• Design, implement, and analyse complex ecological and experimental studies.
• Produce peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, ecological summaries, and briefing materials for Government and industry stakeholders.
• Secure competitive external funding.
• Lead constructive engagement with Government, industry, and community stakeholders.
• Provide scientific and operational leadership for HDR students, technical staff, field teams, and early-career researchers.

What we’re looking for:

• A PhD in marine science, ecology, fisheries science, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated capability in abalone survey methods, habitat assessments, biological sampling, tagging studies, and in situ measurement techniques.
• Strong quantitative skills, including ecological modelling, spatial analysis, and interpretation of biological datasets.
• Demonstrated leadership of complex abalone field programs.
• Experience supervising HDR students, technical staff, and early-career researchers.
• A high-quality publication record in relevant scientific journals.
• Please refer to the Position Description for a list of required diving qualifications.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level C and will have a total remuneration package of up to $184,076 comprising base salary within the range of $138,536 to $157,330 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide your CV and 1-2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities and experience.  You do not need to separately address the Roles Specific Skills, Knowledge and Experience
• For further information about this position, please contact John Keane, Senior Research Fellow - Wild Fisheries, on John.Keane@utas.edu.au or 0362268264.
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 Position Description - 501926 - Benthic Invertebrate Field Biologist - Abalone.pdf

Applications close Wednesday, 28 January 2026, 11.55pm

 The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

 As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.