Postdoctoral Fellow - Marine Science

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Research Associate/Post‑Doctoral Fellow to join our collaborative research team and work with us on marine restoration and ecology projects, including Operation Posidonia. This position includes work managed via the Sydney Institute of Marine Science. Our research work entails extensive underwater field work and requires a candidate with substantial experience in the field. The successful candidate will play an important role in leading high‑quality research projects to drive the advancement of our understanding and conservation of marine ecosystems, working alongside a committed team of professionals from both institutions.

The Research Associate/Post‑Doctoral Fellow (Level A) contributes toward the research effort of the Centre for Marine Science and Innovation and develops their research expertise through managing and pursuing projects within the area of marine ecology, with a particular focus on marine restoration.

About The Role

• Level A – $113K – $121K plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
• Fixed term – 2 years
• Full‑time – 35 hours per week

The role will work under the supervision of Professor Adriana Vergés.

Specific Responsibilities For This Role Include

• Conceptualise, design and conduct research and assist research teams to conduct marine restoration and ecology projects.
• Lead the production of technical and progress reports, manuscripts for publication and tenders or grants for external funding.
• Participate in and/or present at conferences and/or workshops relevant to the project.
• Assist with the supervision of and mentor research students where required.
• Support occasional teaching activities, assess student learning achievements and support students in line with UNSW policy and with the guidance of more senior academics where required.
• Develop and manage effective communications with key stakeholders, both internal and external to the project, including Indigenous owners.
• Conduct project administration including coordination of workshops and meetings, minute taking, manage assigned actions and follow‑ups and project status reporting.
• Coordinate, plan and complete marine research activities within the framework of agreed project timelines and responsibilities.
• Monitor, track and report on the status of project deliverables to ensure time, cost and quality metrics are in line with approved project plans for assigned projects.
• Monitor research protocols, provide problem solving and resolution to any evolving problems related to design, implementation and analysis.
• Maintain and manage lab and field supplies and assist with management of lab finances.
• Build equipment for underwater and mesocosm experiments and maintain mesocosm systems, e.g. at the aquarium at the Sydney Institute of Marine Science.
• Collect and process biological samples and assist with data analyses.
• Align with and actively demonstrate the Code of Conduct and Values.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies and procedures of the university and take all reasonable care to ensure that your actions or omissions do not impact on the health and safety of yourself or others.

About The Successful Applicant

To Be Successful In This Role You Will Have:

• A PhD in marine biology, marine ecology, marine science or a related field, with subsequent relevant experience or equivalent competence gained through any combination of education, training and experience.
• Demonstrated track record of publications and conference presentations in related areas.
• Knowledge of research protocols, experimental design and planning and demonstrated ability to conduct high quality academic research with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team and collaborate across disciplines but also to take initiative and work independently while managing competing demands.
• Project management experience, with an understanding of the project life cycle and development of project plans, objectives and documentation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail and the ability to liaise effectively with a range of stakeholders and students.
• Excellent time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to respond to changing priorities, manage multiple tasks and meet competing deadlines by using judgement and initiative.
• Experience working with a range of computer systems and applications.
• Extensive experience and appropriate certifications for SCUBA diving (e.g. PADI Scientific Diver, Dive Master, Instructor or ADAS commercial diving qualifications).
• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Contact: Adriana Verges E: a.verges@unsw.edu.au

Applications close: November 24th, 2025

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.