Description:
Are you ready to lead cutting-edge environmental research and make a global impact? James Cook University (JCU) is seeking an accomplished and visionary Associate Professor in Ecosystem Processes Research to drive scientific, strategic, and operational leadership for the Ecosystem Processes (EP) platform, a key component of the multi-institutional Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN).
- Full-time, fixed term to June 2028
- Can be based at either the Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas or the Cairns Nguma-bada campus, Smithfield
- Academic Level D: $155,180 - $170,518 per annum (3% increase in July) plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Joining the Research Division and reporting to the Dean of Research, you will lead environmental research infrastructure focused on carbon and water fluxes, biodiversity, and landscape attributes. You will ensure the EP platform operates effectively, contributing to environmental science in Australia and globally. Your role includes advancing impactful research, managing stakeholder partnerships, and mentoring Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students.
You will oversee strategic and operational planning for the EP platform, focusing on financial sustainability, risk management, compliance and innovative outcomes aligned with TERN's mission. Strengthening partnerships with stakeholders, ensuring high-quality data collection, and compliance at EP field sites will be key. Your leadership will drive research excellence through publications, stakeholder engagement, and the promotion of EP platform programs, products, services and tools.
Your leadership will foster a culture of high performance, teamwork, and innovation. Additionally, you will provide strategic advice on research infrastructure, data and technologies to both TERN leadership and JCU.
QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
We are looking for candidates with a PhD or equivalent in relevant area of ecosystem or biodiversity science, complemented by a strong track record of impactful research. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership and management skills, including the ability to manage resources effectively and lead change across diverse teams. Expertise in ecosystem science research, infrastructure, data management, and contemporary research technologies is essential. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial, enabling you to foster productive collaborations across institutions. You should also demonstrate success in strategic planning, budget management, and the ability to drive a vibrant research culture and engagement at both national and international levels.
SHAPE YOUR FUTURE WITH JCU
At JCU we’re not just shaping minds; we’re shaping the future.
As Australia’s only university established to focus on the issues of Northern Australia and the Tropics worldwide, JCU is dedicated to helping the world’s tropical regions to prosper. With our main campuses located in the vibrant and diverse tropics of Northern Queensland, JCU is at the forefront of research and education in some of the world’s most critical areas, including marine biology, environmental science, tropical and rural health, and more.
Find out more about JCU, our Careers and our locations.
WHY JCU?
JCU offers a dynamic and culturally diverse workplace where your ideas are valued, your professional growth is supported, and your work-life balance is respected. Working under the values of Authenticity, Excellence, Integrity, and Respect , we support and empower our people through the provisions of;
- A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
- 36.25-hour full-time working week
- 5 weeks of annual recreation leave plus leave loading
- 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
- Up to 6 months paid parental leave or 12 months at half-pay
- A range of flexible working options
- Attractive options for salary packaging
- Staff study assistance and paid study leave
- Ongoing professional development support
- Fitness Passport
- Corporate discount on health insurance
- Free Employee Assistance Program (coaching and counselling)
- Well-equipped modern facilities and contemporary workspaces.
HOW TO APPLY AND CONTACT DETAILS
Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.
Click the ‘apply’ button, create an applicant profile and follow the steps below:
1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter detailing your relevant experience in relation to the selection criteria of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success.
Applications close on 11 March at 11:55 PM AEST .
Click here for Position Description
For any enquiries about the role, please contact Professor Lucas Cernusak – **************@jcu.edu.au.
ABOUT OUR PROCESS
At JCU, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of the role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome once the recruitment process is finalised.
Please visit our Information Privacy Policy to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.
WHAT MATTERS TO US AT JCU
- Our People - Our staff, students, and the communities we serve
- Our Education - Knowledge has the power to change lives
- Our Place – the Tropics and beyond
- Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation
James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply. We value and celebrate the diversity of our community, and are committed to ensuring our community, and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.