Jobs and Careers

• Engage in meaningful fieldwork—including dive surveys and coastal research—across some of the most ecologically rich and beautiful marine environments in Australia
• Work alongside leading researchers at IMAS, developing advanced technical, analytical and communication skills while supporting high‑impact scientific programs
• Full time, Fixed Term position until December 2027 based in Hobart

About the opportunity

The Research Assistant - Aquaculture Environment Interactions offers the opportunity to contribute directly to high‑impact marine research that supports sustainable aquaculture and healthy coastal ecosystems in Tasmania. Working as part of the Aquaculture Environment Interactions program at IMAS, you will support field and laboratory operations—including dive‑based reef surveys—while managing data, conducting preliminary analyses, and reviewing scientific literature. You’ll work closely with experienced researchers and technical staff, supporting robust scientific outputs that inform industry practice, environmental management, and policy development.  

What you’ll do:

• Undertake collation, review and analysis of literature, assisting in the ongoing delivery of the Aquaculture Environment review series, providing fundamental information to sustainable coastal management.
• Manage data integrity, storage, and conduct basic statistical analyses, ensuring accurate data outputs that inform sustainable aquaculture practices and reef health.
• Participate in the coordination for marine field and laboratory operations within the Aquaculture Environment research program, ensuring collection of scientifically robust data and associated metadata.
• Assist in the reporting and communication of scientific research outputs, including external and government reports, and website and media communications.
• Foster effective collaboration and communication within IMAS and with external partners, contributing to the success of major research initiatives and the University’s broader mission to advance marine science and policy.

Success criteria:

• Practical experience and knowledge in marine ecological systems.
• Knowledge of rocky reef ecosystems with particular reference to macroalgae communities.
• Experience in the collation, review and analysis of scientific and grey literature for the production of public and scientific outputs.
• Demonstrated ability in the use of scientific computer programs (R, PRIMER, word-processing, spreadsheets and databases), statistical analyses and GIS operations.
• Experience in the handling of datasets, including QAQC procedures, collection of associated metadata
• Demonstrated ability to work underwater, along with sound knowledge of reef survey techniques
• Sound interpersonal skills, including written and oral communications.
• A tertiary qualification in a relevant scientific field, being marine science, environmental science or aquaculture, with associated Honours or Masters.
• Occupational diving certification (e.g. ADAS Part 1R or higher).
• Current Australian driver’s license
• Commercial Vessel License Coxswains Grade 1 (or higher) or the ability to obtain one.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Research Assistant Level 1 and will have a total remuneration package of $97,342 comprising base salary of $83,198 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide a short cover letter outlining your interest in the role, a formal response to the success criteria listed above and your CV.
• For further information about this position, please contact Dr Camille White, Research Fellow Aquaculture Environment Interactions, via email  camille.white@utas.edu.au , or phone 03 6226 8377.
• 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.

 502891 - Position Description - Research Assistant - Aquaculture Environment Interactions.pdf

Applications close Monday, 20 April 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.