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.
- Work on cutting‑edge research exploring mantle plume dynamics and geodynamics
- Two‑year, research‑focused appointment at a globally recognised institute
- Full time, Fixed-Term role (2 years) based in Hobart
About the opportunity
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate in Marine and Antarctic Geophysics to join the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) in Hobart for a two‑year, research‑focused appointment. This role will contribute to a cutting‑edge project investigating mantle plume dynamics and their surface expressions, using geophysical observations to address key tectonic and geodynamic questions.
The successful candidate will collect, process, interpret and analyse geophysical datasets from existing and upcoming marine voyages to the Southern Ocean. Working with observational data and model outputs, you will explore how tectonic and mantle processes have interacted to shape the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, with a particular focus on regions including Balleny, Denman/Gaussberg and Kerguelen.
Working within a collaborative and interdisciplinary research team, you will have opportunities to participate in multiple marine voyages, collecting rock samples and geophysical data. These datasets will be integrated with existing data to test hypotheses around plume behaviour, lithospheric structure, and plume–plate interactions. This role offers a rare opportunity to contribute to internationally significant geodynamics research, helping to build a quantitative framework that links deep Earth processes to surface observations.
What you’ll do:
- Participate in marine expeditions to acquire new geological and geophysical datasets and samples
- Process and analyse new data and samples, together with existing data and samples, to inform on the tectonic and geodynamic processes influencing East Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, particularly volcanic regions (e.g. Balleny, Denman/Gaussberg, and Kerguelen).
- Integrate observations with tectonic and geodynamic models and model outputs
- Undertake high-quality research/scholarly activities under limited supervision both independently and as a member of a team, including supervising students
- Publish high-quality research outputs in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national and international conferences.
What we’re looking for:
- A PhD in marine geophysics, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience in the acquisition, processing, interpretation of marine geophysical and geological data and samples.
- Strong understanding of mantle plume processes, lithospheric structure, and tectonic constraints
- Experience in analysing and interpreting numerical model outputs in the context of geological and geophysical data.
- A record of publishing high quality academic work
- A record of contributing to collaborative research and maintaining productive academic networks.
Salary details
Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level B and will have a total remuneration package of up to $155,885 comprising base salary within the range of $114,766 to $133,235 plus 17% superannuation.
Considering a move to Tasmania to take up this opportunity?
Offering a breath of fresh air, our island State’s wild landscapes, rugged coastlines, distinctive towns, and fascinating history have something for everyone. Tasmania has crafted a unique brand of creativity and adventure such as the world-famous MONA and the exceptional mountain bike tracks of Derby. Our acclaimed fresh food and beverage scene, family-run businesses, and diverse culinary experiences celebrate farm-fresh produce. From our island shores, our research extends to the great Southern Ocean and Antarctic and across the Asia-Pacific. Relocation assistance of up to $2,000 may be available, subject to eligibility.
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 Professor Jo Whittaker, ARC Future Fellow, Jo.Whittaker@utas.edu.au
- 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- 503077 - ResearcherMarineAntarcticGeophysics.pdf
Applications close Tuesday, 12 May 2026, 11.55PM
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
