Postdoctoral Research Associate (Agriculture & Plant Microbe)

• Advance world-class research in sustainable agriculture and plant–microbe systems.
• Collaborate globally to deliver real-world impact across horticulture, soil health and crop resilience.
• Full-time (1FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 3.5 years.
• Base salary range: Level A, $83,499 – $112,371 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a globally recognised Group of Eight university, ranked among the world’s top institutions. The School of Agriculture and Environment is in one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots and is internationally recognised for excellence in Agricultural Sciences, Soil Science, and Environmental Science and Engineering.

With strong PhD supervision capability, global research partnerships, and a track record of securing competitive funding, the School delivers high-impact research addressing critical challenges in agriculture, environment, and sustainability.

We are on the lookout for two postgraduate Research Associates offering an exciting opportunity for an early career academic or postdoctoral researcher to contribute to innovative research at the intersection of microbial ecology, soil health and crop disease management.

Working within a multidisciplinary and internationally connected research team, you will:

• Contribute to cutting-edge research programs integrating microbiomes to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability
• Conduct collaborative research in areas such as plant–microbial interactions, metabolomics, RNAi, and soil systems
• Produce high-quality research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications and synthesis papers
• Support externally funded research projects, delivering outcomes aligned with funded proposals
• Engage with industry stakeholders, including growers, to translate research into practical outcomes
• Build research capability and contribute to data management, team initiatives and postgraduate activities

These roles offers increasing autonomy, strong mentorship, and the opportunity to develop a recognised research profile in a research-intensive university environment.

Please apply online via the Apply Now button and address the selection criteria in your submission in a separate document. For information to assist you with compiling statements to answer the selection criteria, please visit Addressing the selection criteria.

You may submit a statement describing any personal circumstances relevant to your application. This can include academic/professional interruptions or achievements relative to opportunity.

To succeed in this role, you will demonstrate:

• A PhD (or near completion) in soil science, plant science, microbial ecology, or a related discipline
• A proven track record of high-quality research outputs, including publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Demonstrated expertise in microbiome research, metabolomics and/or RNAi in soil or plant systems
• Experience contributing to collaborative and externally funded research, ideally with industry engagement
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and engage diverse stakeholders

This position is open to current UWA staff as well as applicants within and outside of Australia.

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at people@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.

Advertised: 19 Jun 2026 W. Australia Standard Time
Applications close: 19 Jul 2026 W. Australia Standard Time

Apply now

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