Senior Research Scientist – Oceanographic Modeller

Department of Primary Industries & Regions SA; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A government department in South Australia seeks a Senior Research Scientist – Oceanographic Modeller to develop and apply numerical models for predicting harmful algal bloom events. This full-time role offers an opportunity to contribute to crucial research supporting marine ecosystems and coastal communities. The successful candidate must possess a PhD in a relevant discipline and have skills in data analysis and process-based oceanographic modelling. The position includes participation in emergency management training and potential travel requirements.

Benefits

Career progression opportunities

Learning and development support

Flexible work arrangements

Qualifications

• Essential: PhD in physical, biological, or biogeochemical oceanography or a related discipline with a strong focus on process-based oceanographic modelling.
• Possession of a current driver’s licence and willingness to drive.
• Out of hours work and inter‑state or intra‑state travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Provide advanced expertise in numerical models to predict harmful algal bloom events.
• Integrate oceanographic data to build forecasting tools.
• Contribute to agency policy responses to significant issues.

Skills

Process-based oceanographic modelling

Data analysis

Education

PhD in physical, biological, or biogeochemical oceanography

Job description

Senior Research Scientist – Oceanographic Modeller

Department of Primary Industries & Regions SA – West Beach SA

The Opportunity

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!

Benefits

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‑state or intra‑state 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.

Enquiries

Mark Doubell
Senior Research Scientist, Sub Program Leader
Phone: [phone]
Email: ************@sa.gov.au
Website: www.pir.sa.gov.au

Application Instructions

Click “Apply” to be directed to the IWFSA website listing, alternatively search for vacancy number 709444 in the keyword search bar at iworkfor.sa.gov.au.

Applicants are required to submit a curriculum vitae and a cover letter of no more than three pages addressing the capabilities within the role description.

Applicants must include the contact information of at least two referees and a completed “Pre‑Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector” form.