Postdoctoral Research Associate (Agriculture & Plant Microbe)

About the area

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.

About the opportunity

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.

About you

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

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current National Police Clearance, Working with Children Check, and “C” class driver’s licence may be required by the successful applicant.

Position description: Position Description – Postdoctoral Research Associate (523634).pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Brajesh Singh at brajesh.singh@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

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.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday 19 July 2026

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

About the University

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.