Research Scientist - Algal / Phytoplankton Taxonomist

Office of Algal Bloom Research, Department of Primary Industries & Regions; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1 147 000 - 1 213 000; Full time

Job summary

A government research office in South Australia is seeking a Research Scientist specialized in Algal/Phytoplankton Taxonomy. The successful candidate will provide vital taxonomic expertise to identify harmful algae, which is crucial for shellfish safety and ecosystem health. This full-time position requires a tertiary qualification in marine biology or a related field, and offers an opportunity for a two-year engagement using advanced technologies in a collaborative team environment. Applications are invited from motivated professionals committed to marine ecosystem protection.

Qualifications

• Possession of a current driver's licence and willingness to drive.
• Demonstrated expertise in phytoplankton taxonomy and microscopy.
• Extensive recognized experience in marine microbiology or plankton ecology.

Responsibilities

• Provides taxonomic expertise to identify harmful algae.
• Supports shellfish safety and ecosystem health in SA waters.
• Integrates microscopy, molecular, and imaging technologies.

Skills

Phytoplankton taxonomy

Microscopy

Marine biology

Advanced algal detection technologies

Education

Tertiary qualification in marine biology or related field

Postgraduate qualification specializing in algal taxonomy

Job description

Research Scientist - Algal / Phytoplankton Taxonomist

Office of Algal Bloom Research, Department of Primary Industries & Regions – West Beach SA

$101,285 - $107,078 a year

Full time

27d ago , from NRMJobs Environmental Jobs

Provides taxonomic expertise to identify harmful algae, supporting shellfish safety and ecosystem health in SA waters using advanced technologies.

• Combines advanced tools for algal detection and characterisation.
• Work with a passionate and collaborative team.
• Opportunity up to two years.

The Opportunity

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.

The Office of Algal Bloom Research

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. This pioneering initiative strengthens South Australia’s capability to monitor, predict, and respond to harmful algal bloom (HAB) events. It builds on SARDI’s scientific expertise and positions the state as a leader in algal bloom research and management. 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 Us

South Australia is internationally recognised for the quality of its agriculture, food, and wine. Our regions are the backbone of our state and the economic powerhouse that drives prosperity for all South Australians.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency working in partnership with our primary industries, regional stakeholders and across all levels of government to advance the prosperity and sustainability of South Australia's primary industries and regional communities.

We are a passionate team of around 800 people working across metropolitan and regional South Australia to develop and protect our state's regions and food, wine, aquaculture, fisheries, forestry, grains, livestock, dairy and horticulture industries.

It's no wonder there are so many exciting and diverse career opportunities in our organisation. If you're ready to join us, apply now!

Our Commitment to Diversity

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We embrace diversity and welcome applications from all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age.

Special Conditions

• Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
• Opportunity for up to two years.
• Full time, 37.5 hours per week.

Requirements

• Possession of a current driver's licence and willingness to drive.
• Out of hours work and inter / intrastate travel may be required.
• You acknowledge your work, health and safety obligations and our expectations when applying for a role.
• The incumbent will be required to undertake emergency management training and must be willing to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies.
• The incumbent will be required to contribute to whole‑of‑agency working groups developing PIRSA policy responses to significant and emerging issues as required.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification (minimum Honours level) in marine biology, biological oceanography, or a related field with demonstrated expertise in phytoplankton taxonomy and microscopy.
• Postgraduate qualification (Masters or PhD) specialising in algal taxonomy, marine microbiology, or plankton ecology, and/or extensive recognised experience.