Postdoctoral Platform Fellow – Data/Machine Learning Analyst for Plant Phenomics Full-time

Australian Plant Phenomics Network (APPN) Position

Based at the School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability

Full-time (100%), fixed-term position until 31 December 2027

Base salary will be in the range $83,698.91 – $111,431.10 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A)

Based at our St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity

The University of Queensland is strengthening its national research capability in plant phenomics through its participation in the Australian Plant Phenomics Network (APPN). Established under the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy, APPN provides cutting-edge infrastructure and expertise to advance agricultural productivity across Australia's diverse production environments. UQ joined APPN in 2024, creating new opportunities for ambitious researchers to work at the intersection of advanced sensing technologies, computation and plant science.

Working under the broad direction of the UQ Node Director, you will contribute specialist expertise in high‑throughput and 3D plant phenotyping, support delivery of national research infrastructure, and play a leading role in developing APPN capabilities at UQ. The role combines hands-on research, platform leadership and collaboration with industry, government and academic partners in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing specialist research expertise in proximal sensing and high‑throughput plant phenotyping methods to support agronomy, broadacre crop physiology and trait pre‑breeding projects.
• Leading 3D imaging, point cloud analysis and simulation studies, including design of experiments, data analysis and preparation of research outputs for publication.
• Managing and overseeing deployment of UAV and ground‑based phenotyping platforms for field and controlled‑environment research trials.
• Supporting the effective operation of APPN at UQ through training, supervision, technical troubleshooting, reporting and compliance with WHS and regulatory requirements.

Research Focused

You will contribute to high‑quality, impactful research outcomes through methodological innovation, data analysis, peer‑reviewed publication and engagement with national and international collaborators.

Citizenship and Service

You will demonstrate responsible research conduct, contribute to team culture, support shared infrastructure, and engage constructively with clients and stakeholders of the APPN‑UQ node.

This is a research focused, platform academic position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ's Criteria for Academic Performance.

About You

You will bring advanced technical expertise, intellectual curiosity and collaborative leadership to this nationally significant research platform. You will demonstrate:

• Completion of a PhD in 3D‑based phenotyping analytics or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant qualifications and at least four years' experience in plant phenomics.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing, managing and analysing 3D plant‑based point models and spatial datasets within research or institutional environments.
• Strong capability in mathematical and statistical programming languages such as R and Python, with experience developing and using 3D models.
• A strong record of research outputs through publications in peer‑reviewed journals and conference proceedings.
• Advanced knowledge of precision agriculture technologies and experience handling complex, high‑volume datasets.
• Excellent communication, consultative and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary research teams and external partners.
• A current Remote Pilot Licence (RePL).
• Demonstrated problem‑solving capability and leadership experience within research or teaching environments.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged. As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad: from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements, access to exclusive internal-only vacancies, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

Interested?

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Carla Gho Brito, carla.gho@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

When you apply, please upload a resume, cover letter, and responses to the 'About You' section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.

Other Information

Pre-employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia and qualifications. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights and a relocation support package, however upfront costs will still be expected to be covered. You can find out more about life in Australia's Sunshine State here.

We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ, and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We're also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.

Applications close Wednesday 24 June 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-63960).