• Join a globally recognised marine research group focused on climate impacts in temperate reef ecosystems.
• Work hands-on in field-based research including diving and boating in Australia’s Great Southern Reef.
• Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 3 years.
• Base salary: Level A step 8, $112,371 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The School of Biological Sciences is a leading, multidisciplinary school with over 80 academic staff delivering world-class teaching and research across ecology, conservation, evolutionary biology, marine science, neuroscience and science communication. The School supports approximately 600 coursework students and supervises over 100 PhD candidates.

This role is based within the Wernberg Lab at the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre—a highly collaborative and internationally recognised research group specialising in temperate marine ecosystems and kelp forest ecology. The team leads innovative, multidisciplinary research spanning climate change impacts, marine heatwaves, biodiversity conservation and blue carbon, using approaches from field ecology to genomics and modelling.

About the opportunity

• Contribute to cutting-edge research in marine ecology, with a focus on temperate reef systems and climate-driven ecosystem change.
• Deliver high-impact research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications, and collaborate with leading national and international research teams.
• Undertake field-based research activities, including data collection, ecological monitoring, and analysis of long-term reef system datasets.
• Participate in hands-on scientific fieldwork, including boating and scuba-based research in compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Support supervision and development of undergraduate, Masters and PhD students, contributing to a strong research training environment.
• Engage in academic service, outreach and science communication, including stakeholder engagement, public presentations and media contributions.

About you

• A PhD in marine ecology or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated research capability, including peer-reviewed publications and experience in ecological field research and data analysis.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including experience with ecological modelling and multivariate data analysis.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams while also demonstrating initiative and independence.
• Experience or capability in kelp forest and temperate reef ecology, including field-based research (diving/boating) and willingness to travel.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current “C” class driver’s licence and ability to travel will be required by the successful applicant.

Candidates will also be required to have the ability to meet the physical and operational requirements of field-based marine research. Scientific diving and boating capability in line with role requirements.

Position description:  Postdoctoral Research Associate (Temperate Marine Ecology) - (523680).pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Thomas Wernberg at thomas.wernberg@uwa.edu.au

For enquiries on the recruitment process, please contact Zen Huang at zen.huang@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Wednesday, 17 July 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.