Research Fellow / Associate Research Fellow - Harmful Algal Bloom Modelling

Help shape the future management of Harmful Algal Blooms across Australia

Join an ambitious, externally funded research project developing a predictive risk framework for Harmful Algal Blooms across Southern Australia.

Working with universities, government agencies and industry stakeholders, you'll contribute to research that combines advanced environmental modelling with stakeholder engagement to help shape how Harmful Algal Blooms are understood, anticipated and managed across Southern Australia.

What does this role offer?

• The opportunity to contribute to research that informs real-world environmental management decisions
• Mentorship from experienced researchers and collaboration with partners across government, industry, and academia
• Exposure to cutting-edge approaches combining machine learning, environmental modelling, and stakeholder engagement
• Direct engagement with the challenges and priorities shaping environmental management across five Australian states
• Access to a strong national professional network through collaboration with leading researchers, government agencies and industry stakeholders across Australia

As a Research Fellow / Associate Research Fellow, you will:

• Contribute to a nationally significant research project developing a predictive risk framework for Harmful Algal Blooms across Southern Australia
• Develop and apply innovative modelling approaches that combine machine learning and ecological models to understand future environmental risk
• Analyse satellite, oceanographic, biogeochemical, and other environmental datasets to generate high-impact research outcomes
• Collaborate with universities, government agencies, industry partners and communities to translate scientific insights into coordinated, practical management action
• Build your research profile through publications, stakeholder engagement and meaningful research translation

To be successful, you'll have:

• A PhD in a relevant discipline and/or equivalent qualifications and experience
• An emerging track record in research and scholarship, demonstrated through publications and/or other research outputs
• Experience in data science and one or more of spatial/geospatial analysis, oceanography, or biogeochemical modelling, with the ability to apply these skills to environmental or ecological datasets
• Technical proficiency in Python, R, MATLAB or a similar analytical environment, including experience applying statistical and/or machine learning methods to complex datasets
• Experience with geospatial analysis tools, remote sensing platforms and/or ecological or biogeochemical modelling software
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues, industry partners and external stakeholders
• An interest in collaborative, impact-focused research that contributes to environmental management and community outcomes

Why work with us?

At Deakin you will have access to benefits such as a variety of leave options including generous parental leave and the ability to purchase additional leave; flexible working arrangements to help manage your work-life balance; ongoing learning and development opportunities to grow your career; an inclusive and supportive culture and environment to work in, both online and on campus.

Here's how to apply: 

Please submit your updated resume, a short cover letter and responses to the Key Selection Criteria. Please also indicate in your cover letter whether you are applying for the Associate Research Fellow (Level A), Research Fellow (Level B).

For a confidential discussion regarding this role, please contact Kay Critchell (Senior Lecturer) on ***********@deakin.edu.au

For a copy of the position descriptions, please see below:

 Associate Research Fellow_Level A.pdf

 Research Fellow_Level B.pdf

Applications for this position close on 31 August 2026 at 11:55 pm.

Are You Ready?

Deakin is a Victorian university with a global impact. We are an agile, dynamic, and innovative university committed to making a positive impact through our excellence in education, research and innovation and the contributions we make to the wider community.

We understand that our reputation has been built on the dedication and expertise of our staff and we offer a dynamic and diverse working environment with opportunities to grow and develop careers. We believe that a progressive, thriving culture will ensure that people choose to come, and stay at Deakin and contribute to our ongoing success.

We value diversity and aim to build an inclusive environment that champions, embraces and respects differences. We support and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people of all abilities, cultures, sexual orientation, and genders.

Pre-employment safety and suitability checks: In accordance with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence, appointment to this role is subject to successful completion of relevant pre-employment checks, including Working With Children Checks and candidate gender-based violence declarations.

Candidates may be asked to declare whether they have been investigated for an allegation of Gender‑based Violence, or determined to have engaged in conduct that constitutes Gender‑based Violence during the course of their previous employment, or otherwise in a legal process.  A declaration is not required from individuals who have experienced gender‑based violence.  A ‘Yes’ response does not automatically exclude a candidate from employment, and any information provided will be treated confidentially and considered only for relevance to the role and the University’s safety obligations.