• Are you a motivated, early career scientist interested in working in our Integrated Agricultural Systems Program?

• Do you have, or will shortly obtain, a PhD in ecology, entomology, biology or agronomy?

• Research the ecological roles that native & introduced earwig species play in grain fields

The Position:

This postdoctoral research role will value-add to an existing multi-organisational GRDC-funded project with the aim of generating new knowledge about the life-cycles and biology of a range of invertebrate pest and beneficial species in Australian grain production landscapes. This research will enable pathways for better spray decision-making and the proactive management of pests by grain growers. This postdoctoral position is focussed on gaining a better understanding of the ecological roles that native and introduced earwig species play in grain fields. In particular, how diet breadth and food choice determines their interactions with crop plants and invertebrates, and identifying which factors influence these species acting as pests or beneficials in grains production systems.

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in using innovative experimental and survey approaches to understand the behaviours and activities of invertebrates in managed systems. To address the research questions you may use a range of approaches from small-scale controlled microcosm studies, replicated field trials on commercial properties, through to molecular gut content analyses.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to join a team of researchers who are committed to delivering research outcomes that lead to improved pest management decision-making by grain growers. The postdoctoral fellow will be appointed to CSIRO but form part of a team of researchers based in southern and western Australia (SARDI, University of Melbourne, DAFWA, and NSW DPI). There is an opportunity for the postdoctoral fellow to negotiate and undertake periods of secondment to our partner organisations within other Australian locations in order to facilitate the project goals.

The successful candidate will work in CSIRO Agriculture & Food in the Integrated Agricultural Systems Program based in Canberra. This group includes world-leading researchers in invertebrate ecology, landscape ecology, crop and pasture agronomy, mixed farming systems research and crop and systems modelling. The postdoctoral fellow will collaborate with scientists within CSIRO across Australia and interact extensively with other research partners in the project. This may include direct interaction with farmers, advisors and grower group networks to ensure research outputs generate impact and industry relevant outcomes.

Your duties will include:

• Planning and executing research studies that address applied research questions with particular emphasis on invertebrate population processes at multiple spatial and temporal scales.
• Analysing and interpreting ecological data collected from field-based research projects, which include multiple species, using a range of approaches and tools.
• Producing client reports and high quality scientific papers suitable for publication in peer-reviewed International journals.
• Presenting research findings to collaborating farmers, advisors, grower groups and industry partners.

Location: Black Mountain, Canberra, ACT
Salary: $80k to $91k plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Tenure: Specified term of 2 years
Ref no: 57302

To be successful you will have:

• A doctorate (or will shortly satisfy the requirements of a PhD) in a relevant discipline area, such as ecology, entomology, biology or agronomy. Please note: To be eligible for this role you must have no more than 4 years of relevant postdoctoral experience.
• High level written and oral communication skills with the ability to represent the research team effectively internally and externally, including at national and international conferences.
• Demonstrated research capability in invertebrate ecology (e.g. multi-species interactions), with particular emphasis on population processes at multiple spatial and temporal scales.
• Demonstrated experience in collecting, analysing and interpreting ecological data from field-based research projects, using a range of approaches and tools.
• The ability to conduct controlled laboratory or semi-field experiments that specifically involve the manipulation of live invertebrates to address a research question.

Before applying please view the full position details and selection criteria here: Position Details document

About Us

We imagine. We collaborate. We innovate.  At CSIRO, we do the extraordinary every day. We innovate for tomorrow and help improve today – for our customers, all Australians and the world. We do this by using science and technology to solve real issues. Diversity is the compass that navigates our innovation. We provide an inclusive workplace that respects, values and actively pursues the benefits of a diverse workforce.

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. Talk to us about how this role could be flexible for you.  Find out more Balance

How to Apply: Please provide enough information relevant to the selection criteria for this position to enable the assessment panel to determine your suitability, and upload one document containing your CV/resume and cover letter.  

Applications Close:  10:59pm AEST, 9 July 2018.