Research Fellow in Ecology and Restoration Modelling

rmit; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 142,000; Part time

Job summary

RMIT University in Melbourne is seeking a part-time Research Fellow (0.8–0.85 FTE) to lead independent and collaborative research in ecological and hydrological modelling. The role spans the School of Science and associated institutes, with a city-based base and potential work at other campuses.

Appointment is fixed-term and supports national impact research activities. You will develop and manage research projects, foster internal and external partnerships, and contribute to high-quality

Qualifications

• Experience in ecological modelling, biodiversity and restoration modelling, and/or hydrological modelling.
• Fieldwork experience and driver's license; coastal wetlands preferred.
• Emerging track record with Q1 publications and ability to secure funding.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver research projects aligned with the University's strategy.
• Build productivity-driven research networks across RMIT and partner organisations.
• Contribute to high-quality outputs, engage in collaborations, and pursue funding opportunities.

Skills

Ecological modelling

Biodiversity modelling

Restoration modelling

Hydrological modelling

Education

PhD or equivalent

Job description

Overview:

1 x part time (0.8 to 0.85FTE), fixed term (until 30th of June or 30 July 2028) position available in the School of Science. Salary Academic Level B ($119,915 - $142,402) + 17% Superannuation. Based at the City, but may be required to work and/or be based at other campuses of the University.

About the Role

As a Research Fellow, you will work collaboratively with research teams and strategic partnerships across the School and Research Institutes to deliver high-quality research aligned with the University's research strategy and focus areas. The role involves planning, developing and undertaking independent and/or team-based research that contributes to advancing knowledge within your area of specialisation and supports outcomes with national impact and recognition.

You will play a key role in designing and delivering research projects, building productivity-driven research networks across RMIT and with local and national partners, and embedding research expertise into the broader life of the School. The successful candidate will contribute to high-quality research outputs, engage in collaborative research initiatives, and support the growth of research funding opportunities through the development of strong internal and external partnerships.

This position is well suited to a researcher who can work both independently and collaboratively, contribute to impactful research programs, and support the University's commitment to research excellence and innovation.

Key Selection Criteria

• Experience in ecological modelling, biodiversity and restoration modelling, and/or hydrological modelling.
• Fieldwork experience and driver's license. Experience in coastal wetlands is preferred, but experience in other natural ecosystems is acceptable.
• Emerging track record and recognition for quality research outputs, including Q1 peer-reviewed publications. Evidence that the applicant will contribute to existing Discipline and School research areas evidenced, e.g. publications, development of new research initiatives, competitive research funding, and industry links.
• Demonstrate capacity to develop high-quality research ideas, while working independently and within teams.
• Ability to build effective networks with colleagues and generate alternative funding projects through effective liaison with industry and government.
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills appropriate for interacting with higher degree by research candidates, staff and industry, together with a strong commitment to teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration.
• Desired: Demonstrated ability to supervise higher degree by research candidates.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in relevant field

Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children and National Police Check.

Applications Close: 4 Nov 2026 11.59 pm

RMIT is an equal opportunity employer committed to being a child safe organisation. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community, and we strongly encourage applications from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.

In line with RMIT University's commitment to a safe, respectful and inclusive environment, from 1 January 2026, the University will also consider gender-based violence (GBV) risk factors as part of our recruitment processes. All applicants will be required to complete a gender‑based violence declaration in accordance with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence . Preferred candidates will also be required to undertake relevant pre‑employment background checks, including Working With Children Checks. Information provided will be treated confidentially and considered only for its relevance to the role and RMIT's safety obligations.

At RMIT, we are committed to supporting adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, as well as during employment. We actively support and encourage people with disability to apply to RMIT (including alternate formats of application forms). To discuss adjustment requirements, please contact Dani, via [e-mail] or visit our Careers page for mo