Postdoctoral Research Associate (Temperate Marine Ecology)

• Join a world-leading marine ecology research team investigating climate-driven change in Australias iconic Great Southern Reef.
• Conduct impactful field-based research on kelp forests and temperate reef ecosystems across Western Australia.
• Full-time (1 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for 3 years.
• Base salary range: Level A step 8 $112371 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The School of Biological Sciences is a large multidisciplinary School with more than 80 academic staff delivering world-class education and research programs to approximately 600 undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students and supervising around 100 PhD candidates.

The Wernberg Lab based at the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre is internationally recognised for research on temperate marine ecosystems and kelp forests. The group investigates biodiversity ecosystem functioning and climate change impacts across Australias Great Southern Reef using multidisciplinary approaches combining field ecology genomics ecophysiology ecological modelling and social science.

About the opportunity

• Join the internationally recognised Wernberg Lab and contribute to cutting-edge research on climate-driven change in kelp forests and temperate reef ecosystems across Australias Great Southern Reef.
• Undertake field-based research across southwestern Australia investigating biodiversity ecosystem functioning and the responses of marine species and habitats to environmental change.
• Coordinate and support long-term reef monitoring programs including ecological surveys data collection data management analysis and interpretation.
• Contribute to high-quality research outcomes through peer-reviewed publications conference presentations grant applications and collaborative research activities.
• Support scientific boating and occupational diving operations and help deliver safe and effective field programs in accordance with University and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in supervising and mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students while contributing to science communication outreach activities and the broader academic life of the School.

About you

• A PhD in marine ecology or a closely related discipline with a demonstrated commitment to high-quality research and publication outcomes.
• Strong knowledge and research experience in temperate reef ecology including ecological survey techniques and quantitative data analysis.
• Demonstrated experience in kelp forest and temperate reef research including community assessments ecosystem processes and species identification.
• Experience conducting scientific boating and scuba-based fieldwork with a sound understanding of relevant safety standards legislation and best practices.
• Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence sexual harassment and related misconduct to meet legal obligations. A current Occupational SCUBA certification Coxswain Grade 2 NC certification (or ability to obtain) and a current drivers licence will be required by the successful must also have the ability to meet the physical and operational requirements of field-based marine research.

Position description: Postdoctoral Research Associate (Temperate Marine Ecology) -

To learn more about this opportunity please contact Thomas Wernberg at

For enquiries on the recruitment process please contact Zen Huang at

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 Wednesday 29 July 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in 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 Australias top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

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 with details of your query. To enable a quick response please include the 6-digit job reference number.