Research Fellow (Soil Comammox) Full-time

Research Fellow In Soil Comammox

As a Research Fellow in Soil Comammox, you will have the opportunity to lead innovative laboratory and field experiments, advancing our understanding of comammox bacteria in soil nitrogen cycling. Collaborating with esteemed researchers, you will develop cutting-edge methods and technologies, enriching your expertise in molecular ecology and agricultural science. This role offers a unique chance to contribute to transformative research with global significance.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead Innovative Experiments: Conduct laboratory and glasshouse experiments to characterize soil comammox bacteria and their contributions to nitrogen cycling.
• Develop Advanced Methods: Cultivate comammox Nitrospira from agricultural soils and characterize genomic and physiological traits.
• Quantify Contributions: Use novel technologies to assess the roles of comammox Nitrospira, AOA, and AOB in nitrification and N₂O emissions.
• Coordinate Research Activities: Oversee project meetings, reports, and contribute to laboratory management within the Soil Molecular Ecology Group.

You may be a great fit if:

• You will be an accomplished researcher with a PhD in soil biology or microbial ecology, possessing excellent organizational and interpersonal skills to drive collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects.
• You may also hold a PhD in soil biology, microbial ecology, or a related field.
• You demonstrate expertise in molecular biology and nitrogen cycling processes.
• You have experience publishing research in high-impact scientific journals.
• You possess strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• You are skilled in building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders in diverse environments.

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 – School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences

The School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences advances science for thriving environments and communities, tackling global challenges like climate change, food security, biodiversity, sustainable forestry, and agriculture through interdisciplinary research. With expertise across biophysical, social, and technical sciences, it supports PhD students and develops practical, high-impact solutions.

The School offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs—including agriculture, science, and six specialized Master's degrees—across four campuses with dedicated facilities for hands-on learning. Actively partnering with industry, government, alumni, and communities, it fosters education and research that benefit both people and the environment.

Be Yourself

The University of Melbourne is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a child-safe organization. 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.

Please note: This role requires current valid work rights for Australia. Visa sponsorship is not 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: 22 March 2026 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.