At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to enhance research outcomes in ecosystem science and data analysis.
- Company: University of New South Wales, a leading institution in research and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 17% superannuation, annual leave loading, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and participation in conferences and community events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in ecosystem science while collaborating with experts in the field.
- Qualifications: PhD or relevant Masters in ecology, environmental science, or data science with coding skills.
The predicted salary is between 113000 - 121000 £ per year.
Job Overview
Research Associate – Data Scientist (Ecosystem Science) at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, NSW. Full‑time, 35 hours per week, fixed term 18 months (through 31 December 2027) with Level A salary ($113k – $121k) plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading.
About the Role
- Full‑time (35 hours per week)
- Fixed term – 18 months (to 31 December 2027)
- Level A ($113k – $121k) plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute independently or as a team member in collaborative research to enhance the quality of research outcomes in the discipline area.
- Enable research teams to produce scholarly output recognised by peers.
- Develop ecosystem‑specific indicator workflows under the guidance of a research leader and contribute to related research activities.
- Apply ecological and/or data science expertise in workflow design, testing, data transformation, harmonisation, and metadata development.
- Collaborate with research software engineers on implementation of software tools and solutions for reproducible research, including requirement gathering and user testing activities.
- Contribute to documentation, case studies, and example applications.
- Support training activities, community events, and dissemination of research outcomes through appropriate channels and outlets.
- Undertake discipline‑appropriate research activities such as surveys, literature reviews, data gathering, and recording of results using appropriate methods.
- Participate in and present at conferences and workshops relevant to the project as required; assist in supervising research students where applicable.
- Adhere to the university’s Code of Conduct, Values, and health and safety policies.
Qualifications and Selection Criteria
- PhD in ecology, environmental science, or conservation science, or a tertiary qualification (Masters or Honours) in data science or a similar discipline combined with relevant experience.
- Knowledge and experience in computer science and coding.
- Proven skills in mathematics and statistics.
- Demonstrated commitment to staying current with domain and technical knowledge.
- Track record of research outputs (publications, conference presentations, datasets, software, etc.) relevant to the role.
- Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and build relationships.
- Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills.
- Understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values, and relevant policies and guidelines.
- Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to training.
EEO Statement
UNSW aspires to be the exemplar Australian university and employer of choice for people from diverse backgrounds. UNSW aims to ensure equality in recruitment, development, retention and promotion of staff and that no‑one is disadvantaged on the basis of gender, cultural background, disability, sexual orientation or identity or Indigenous heritage. We encourage everyone who meets the selection criteria to apply. UNSW partners with Australia’s leading diversity organisations, networks, and campaigns. Please refer to UNSW’s diversity offerings for further information on our flexible work and leave options, and support for carers (childcare, parent rooms, parental leave).
Applications close: 25 June 2026.
Research Associate - Data Scientist in Ecosystem Science in Edinburgh employer: UNSW
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of ecosystem science. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, UNSW provides ample opportunities for professional growth, including access to training activities and community events, all while enjoying competitive remuneration and generous benefits such as superannuation and annual leave loading. Located in Sydney, a city renowned for its beautiful landscapes and dynamic research environment, UNSW stands out as a leading institution dedicated to impactful research and the development of its staff.
