Research Fellow – Managing Nutrient for Sustainable Development Full-time

Research Fellow In Nutrient Management For Sustainable Development

Appointed Level A, as a Research Fellow in Nutrient Management for Sustainable Development, you'll play a crucial role in an ACIAR-funded project aimed at developing sustainable agricultural nitrogen management strategies in Lao rice-based farming systems. You'll have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking studies in Australia and Lao PDR, developing your expertise in life cycle assessment, soil science, and big data analytics. This role offers you the chance to directly impact global food security and environmental sustainability while working in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Conduct Comprehensive Research: Implement literature searches, data mining, and analysis to build databases on nitrogen use and losses in agricultural systems.

• Develop Sustainable Frameworks: Establish green/sustainable indices for global agricultural products along production, consumption, and marketing value chains.

• Contribute to International Projects: Participate in research efforts to improve fertiliser use and crop management practices in Lao PDR.

• Collaborate and Communicate: Work with multidisciplinary teams, engage with stakeholders, and disseminate research findings through publications and conferences.

You may be a great fit if:

You are a dedicated researcher with a PhD in Resource Economics or a related field, possessing strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary, international research environment.

You may also:

• Have a PhD in Resource Economics or a related discipline.

• Possess experience in life cycle assessment, soil science, and big data analytics.

• Demonstrate strong research and publication skills in relevant areas.

• Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills in English.

• Show the ability to work cooperatively in a diverse, multidisciplinary team.

For further information please refer to the attached PD.

What we offer you!

• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being

• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance

• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance

• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

Your new team – The School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences

The School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences (SAFES) has a vision of flourishing environments and communities. The School brings together diverse discipline strengths to lead the development of new interdisciplinary thinking and high-impact solutions for global challenges relating to climate change, food security, healthy food systems, biodiversity conservation, sustainable forest management, invasive species, and environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural practices. Our expertise spans biophysical, social, and technical sciences, and we support a large cohort of PhD students across these domains.

Be Yourself

The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organisation. We believe the diversity of our community enriches us all, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and fair workplace where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

We're committed to a barrier-free recruitment process and ongoing workplace support, providing reasonable adjustments throughout. We warmly encourage applications from people with disabilities. For assistance, please contact Kim Groizard on +61 3 9035 3218 or at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au (subject: 'Recruitment Adjustments'). Contact details for other enquiries are located at the bottom of this page.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians. Our Indigenous strategy, Murmuk Djerring outlines our investment and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to connect with “Korin-Korin” our Indigenous Employment & Development team at oied-hr@unimelb.edu.au for further information and support.

Visa sponsorship is available.

A Working with Children Check (WWCC) is required for all positions. If successful, we'll guide you through the WWCC application process during onboarding and reimburse the cost.

Join Us and unlock your career potential

If this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents:

• Resume

• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience

• The responses against the Selection Criteria^ (found in the Position Description)

Learn more about the application process, including tips and FAQs.

For recruitment queries, email Oliver Bukasa at hr-careers@unimelb.edu.au. Include the Position Number and Job Title in the subject line. Please do not send applications to this email address.

For job-specific queries, refer to the contact details in the Position Description.

Applications close: 28 March 2026 11:55 PM Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) / Melbourne time zone.