Senior Research Scientist - Oceanographic Modeller

Office of Algal Bloom Research, Department of Primary Industries and Regions; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1 253 000 - 1 365 000; Full time

Job summary

A governmental research institute in South Africa is seeking a Senior Research Scientist - Oceanographic Modeller. This role involves developing and applying numerical models to predict harmful algal bloom events and enhance Australia's capacity to mitigate their impact on marine ecosystems. Candidates should have a PhD in oceanography or a related discipline. The position is full-time, offering a salary range of $110,696 - $120,470 per year and is based in West Beach, South Australia.

Benefits

Career progression opportunities

Learning and development

Flexibility in work hours

Qualifications

• Possession of a current driver's licence and willingness to drive.
• Out of hours work and inter/intrastate travel may be required.
• Acknowledge work, health and safety obligations.
• Willing to participate in emergency preparedness activities.
• Periods of time will be spent at sea on research vessels.

Responsibilities

• Provide advanced expertise in developing numerical models to predict harmful algal bloom events.
• Integrate oceanographic data to build forecasting tools.
• Support research and early warning systems addressing algal blooms.
• Strengthen capability to mitigate impacts on marine ecosystems.

Education

PhD in physical, biological, or biogeochemical oceanography or a related discipline

Job description

Senior Research Scientist - Oceanographic Modeller

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

$110,696 - $120,470 a year

Full time

The Senior Research Scientist - Oceanographic Modeller provides advanced expertise in developing and applying numerical models to predict the movement, severity and duration of harmful algal bloom events. This role integrates physical, chemical, and biological oceanographic data to build hindcast and operational forecasting tools that support Algal Bloom research and early warning systems and guide management and industry responses. The position plays a key role in strengthening South Australia's capability to anticipate and mitigate the impacts of harmful algal blooms on marine ecosystems, fisheries and aquaculture, and coastal communities.

The Office for 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!

At the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, we offer our employees challenging and rewarding work with opportunities for career progression, learning and development and flexibility.

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 2 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.
• Periods of time will be spent at sea on small boats and large research vessels.
• 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

Essential: PhD in physical, biological, or biogeochemical oceanography or a related discipline with a strong focus on process-based oceanographic modelling.