Postdoctoral Research Associate In Sustainable Agriculture

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a globally recognised Group of Eight university, consistently ranked among the world’s top institutions. Located in Perth, Western Australia, UWA benefits from being situated in one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, providing a unique setting for research in agriculture, soil science, and environmental science. The School of Agriculture and Environment is internationally recognised for excellence in Agricultural Sciences, Soil Science, and Environmental Science and Engineering, with strong PhD supervision capabilities, global research partnerships, and a proven track record of securing competitive funding.

This postdoctoral opportunity invites two early‑career academics or postdoctoral researchers to join a multidisciplinary and internationally connected research team. The appointed Research Associates will work on innovative research at the intersection of microbial ecology, soil health, and crop disease management. Core activities include contributing to cutting‑edge research programs that integrate microbiomes to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability, conducting collaborative research in areas such as plant–microbial interactions, metabolomics, RNAi, and soil systems, and producing high‑quality research outputs including peer‑reviewed publications and synthesis papers.

In addition to research duties, the role involves supporting externally funded research projects, ensuring outcomes align with funded proposals, and engaging with industry stakeholders—including growers—to translate research findings into practical solutions. The position also encourages the development of research capability through contributions to data management, team initiatives, and postgraduate activities. Successful candidates will enjoy increasing autonomy, strong mentorship from leading academics, and the chance to build a recognised research profile in a vibrant research‑intensive environment.

To be considered, applicants must hold a PhD (or be near completion) in soil science, plant science, microbial ecology, or a closely related discipline. A proven record of high‑quality research outputs, demonstrated expertise in microbiome research, metabolomics, and/or RNAi in soil or plant systems, and experience contributing to collaborative and externally funded research—ideally with industry engagement—are essential. Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams while engaging diverse stakeholders are also required.

The appointment is full‑time (1 FTE) on a fixed‑term basis for 3.5 years. The base salary range is Level A, $83,499–$112,371 per annum (pro‑rata), plus 17% superannuation. Benefits include flexible working options, generous paid leave (including parental leave), up to 17% employer‑paid superannuation, salary packaging, incremental progression based on 12 months continuous service, up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full‑fee courses, discounted health insurance, and access to an Employee Assistance Program.

Applications must be submitted online via the Apply Now button, addressing the selection criteria in a separate document. The closing date is 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday 19 July 2026 (UTC 00:00 on 19 July 2026). For further information, candidates may contact Brajesh Singh at [email protected]. The position is open to current UWA staff as well as applicants within and outside of Australia.