Full-time, fixed-term position through to December 2027
Base salary will be in the range $97,268 - $104,348 plus 17% super (HEW Level 6)
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Join a collaborative, innovative and purpose-driven research environment at UQ’s Gatton Campus, where you will help deliver cutting-edge agricultural research through the Australian Plant Phenomics Network (APPN) UQ node. As Senior Research Officer, you will play a critical role in supporting world-class field, glasshouse and controlled-environment research, combining hands-on agricultural expertise with advanced technologies including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), precision agriculture systems and high-throughput phenotyping platforms.
You will be working alongside leading researchers and technical specialists and contribute to meaningful research outcomes that help shape the future of sustainable agriculture while creating positive change for industry and communities.
Key responsibilities will include, but not limited to:
Deliver and support field, glasshouse and controlled-environment research activities, including the establishment, management and maintenance of research trials.
Operate and maintain agricultural machinery, irrigation systems, UAVs and advanced phenotyping technologies to enable high-quality research outcomes.
Collaborate with researchers and technical teams to collect, manage and support the delivery of accurate research data and experimental programs.
Maintain a safe, efficient and compliant research environment, including equipment maintenance, chemical management, sample stewardship and adherence to safety protocols.
Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving and technical skills, with the ability to adapt to emerging agricultural technologies.
Completion of a relevant degree in Agricultural Science, Agronomy or a closely related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Sound knowledge of agronomy, weed management and precision agriculture practices.
Experience coordinating field activities or supporting agricultural research, preferably within a university, research institute or experimental farm environment.
Willingness to work across field, glasshouse and controlled-environment settings and undertake occasional after-hours or weekend work when required.
Experience with UAV operations, phenotyping technologies or precision agriculture platforms.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative approach to working within multidisciplinary teams.
Current ChemCert and/or ACDC licences, or the ability to obtain accreditation upon appointment will be highly regarded.
A Remote Pilot Licence (RePL), or the demonstrated ability and willingness to obtain accreditation will be highly regarded.
Demonstrated experience operating agricultural machinery, including tractors and other heavy farm equipment will be highly regarded.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
It is a requirement of this position to wear tight-fitting respiratory protection which can only effectively seal to the face if facial hair is absent. It is therefore a requirement of the position that you maintain a clean-shave or only have facial hair that does not interfere with the fitting surface and the valve of the respirator.
As part of the UQ community, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, working together to create a better world. Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available, such as:
Free parking and intercampus bus.
On campus childcare, medical clinic, and post office.
Up to 26 weeks paid parental leave/paid primary care leave.
17% superannuation contributions + 17.5% annual leave loading.
Health and wellness discounts: fitness passport access, free yearly flu vaccinations, discounted health insurance, and access to our Employee Assistance Program for staff and their immediate family.
Career development opportunities: access to exclusive internal-only vacancies and our Study for Staff program.
25% discount on eligible UQ Vets services.
Access to our $4.1 million UQ Sports facility.
At UQ, we are committed to creating change together. You will work within a supportive, inclusive and collaborative community where innovative thinking is encouraged and where your expertise helps contribute to meaningful research impact. Recent UQ agricultural research highlights include work advancing plant-based protein innovation and sustainable food systems, demonstrating the University's commitment to addressing future agricultural and food security challenges.
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Carla Gho Brito at carla.gho@uq.edu.au For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.
Pre-employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.
You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.
We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.
Applications close Wednesday 5 August 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-67243)
