Research Scientist - Algal/Phytoplankton Taxonomist

Department of Primary Industries and Regions; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1 147 000 - 1 213 000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental research institute is looking for a Research Scientist - Algal/Phytoplankton Taxonomist in South Africa. The role involves providing taxonomic expertise for harmful algal species, conducting assessments of shellfish safety, and integrating various technologies for detection. Candidates should have at least an Honours-level qualification in marine biology or a related field and relevant experience. This full-time position offers opportunities for career progression and flexibility.

Benefits

Career progression opportunities

Learning and development flexibility

Qualifications

• Minimum Honours level in marine biology or biological oceanography.
• Demonstrated expertise in taxonomy and microscopy of harmful microalgae.
• Extensive recognised experience in relevant fields.

Responsibilities

• Provide specialist taxonomic expertise for harmful algal species.
• Conduct rapid assessments of shellfish safety and ecosystem health.
• Integrate microscopy, molecular, and imaging technologies for detection.
• Participate in policy responses to develop emergency management.
• Undertake necessary travel and out-of-hours work.

Skills

Taxonomy expertise

Microscopy

Marine biology

Inter/state travel

Education

Tertiary qualification in marine biology or related field

Postgraduate qualification preferred

Job description

Research Scientist - Algal/Phytoplankton Taxonomist

Department of Primary Industries and Regions – West Beach SA

Job Type: Contract position | Full time position

Job Description

The Research Scientist - Algal/Phytoplankton Taxonomist provides specialist taxonomic expertise for the identification, classification, and culture of harmful algal species, supporting rapid and accurate assessments of shellfish safety and ecosystem health in South Australian waters. The role underpins the State’s scientific capability to detect and characterise harmful algal bloom events through the integration of microscopy, molecular and imaging technologies.

We are seeking motivated, skilled, and suitably qualified professionals who are inspired to contribute to pioneering research and operational programs that protect marine ecosystems, aquaculture, and coastal communities.

About the Office

The Office for Algal Bloom Research has recently been established within the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), as South Australia’s central hub dedicated to the national integration of algal bloom science.

It builds on SARDI’s scientific expertise and positions the state as a leader in algal bloom research and management.

Responsibilities

• Provide specialist taxonomic expertise for the identification, classification, and culture of harmful algal species.
• Conduct rapid assessments of shellfish safety and ecosystem health in SA waters.
• Integrate microscopy, molecular, and imaging technologies for HAB detection.
• Participate in emergency management training and whole-of-agency working groups to develop PIRSA policy responses.
• Undertake inter/intra state travel and out-of-hours work as required.

Qualifications

• Essential: Tertiary qualification (minimum Honours level) in marine biology, biological oceanography, or a related field with demonstrated expertise in taxonomy and microscopy of temperate harmful microalgae, especially dinoflagellates.
• Postgraduate qualification (Masters or PhD) in algal taxonomy, marine microbiology, or plankton ecology preferred.
• Extensive recognised experience in relevant fields.
• Current driver’s licence, willingness to drive and travel.

Benefits

Opportunity for up to two years. Full time, 37.5 hours per week.

We offer challenging work with opportunities for career progression, learning and development and flexibility.

Legal & Other

Successful applicant will be required to satisfy a National Police Check (NPC) prior to employment.

Remuneration: PO3 - $101,285 minimum - $107,078 max per annum, plus superannuation.

For enquiries, contact Sasi Nayar, Aquaculture Program Leader, Aquatic & Livestock Sciences, Phone: [phone]***, Email: **********@sa.gov.au, Website: www.pir.sa.gov.au or https://iworkfor.sa.gov.au/page.php? pageID=160&windowUID=0&AdvertID=886019#brs_jbcontent

Department of Primary Industries and Regions is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.