Jobs and Careers

Research Fellow

 Tree Crop Physiology

• Contribute to the delivery of agricultural science research
• Based in Launceston, Tasmania with relocation assistance considered
• Full-time, fixed-Term (5 years)

About the opportunity

The Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) is seeking to appoint a Research Fellow in Tree Crop Physiology to co-design and implement research on sustainable tree crop production systems. TIA is looking to appoint an outstanding research-focused early to mid-career researcher, who will be supported to build research and provide leadership.

You will undertake research in partnership with growers and the broader sector to demonstrate the benefits of research findings expertly and independently. This position will also be key to addressing our strategic agenda to sustainably increase productivity in Tasmania’s horticulture sector.

The Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture is part of the University’s College of Sciences and Engineering and will be headquartered at Launceston’s Newnham campus from July 1st 2024. At the Newnham campus, UTAS is investing $26 million-dollars in a new glasshouse, a multi-purpose research facility and a large space for in-ground trials including retractable roof growing areas and polytunnels. The development will be constructed in two stages commencing in early 2024.  The 1100m2 glasshouse will have an advanced level of biosecurity and be equipped with the latest technology to control carbon dioxide, humidity, and a wide temperature range.  The 1300m2 multi-purpose research facility brings a variety of functions under one roof, including seed cleaning, drying and storage, plant and soil grinding and drying, and large food grade cool rooms.

What you’ll do:

• Develop and implement TIA’s PIPS 4 Profit research programs that will lead to a steep change in sustainability, productivity, and profitability.
• Work closely with colleagues both across TIA and UTAS in the development of research projects in tree crop physiology and aligned fields including tree nutrition, soil science, agriculture technology and innovation, and data analytics.
• Lead co-design and extension activities with industry that lead to the adoption of research outcomes, that have impact and make a difference.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of productive and effective links both inside the University, and externally (locally and nationally) within the discipline, relevant interdisciplinary domains, profession, industry and/or wider community.

­What we’re looking for:

• A PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
• Experience in undergraduate teaching, including design and delivery using blended learning technologies is desirable.
• A good record of, and continuing commitment to, research that has achieved national recognition and impacted tree crop horticulture.
• Evidence of demonstrated experience in co-design with industry and extension that leads to adoption of relevant research.
• Evidence of contributing to building and maintaining effective and productive links locally and nationally with growers, the horticultural industry and the wider community.
• Knowledge of agriculture technology and digital innovation relevant to Tree crop horticulture would be highly regarded.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level A or B, depending on experience, and will have a total remuneration package of up to $147,083 comprising base salary within the range of $78,499 to $125,712 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide your CV and 2-page cover letter outlining your interest in the role, skills, capabilities and experience relevant to the success criteria in the position description
• For further information about this position, please contact Nigel Swarts, Horticulture Centre Leader, nigel.swarts@utas.edu.au 0422 538 554
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

 Position Description - Research Fellow - 499390.pdf

Applications close Sunday, 17 December 2023, 11.55pm