Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Modelling Australian Vegetation Dynamics

• Full-time, fixed-term position for 2 years.
• Based at Hawkesbury Campus with flexible working arrangements.
• Salary: Academic Level A $97,153 – $117,376 per annum, plus 17% Super and Leave Loading.

Advance process-based modelling of Australian vegetation within a collaborative research program.



The Opportunity

We're seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Modelling Australian Vegetation Dynamics to join the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment. You will contribute to the development and application of a dynamic vegetation model for Australian vegetation, with a focus on the factors that govern the distribution and function of major Australian vegetation types.



You will collaborate with project team members to improve model functionality and performance, including working with internal and external collaborators to source, harmonise and analyse appropriate datasets. You will ensure reproducibility of research through appropriate management of data and code, and you will maintain research data practices that conform to the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and University policies.



You will produce accurate model documentation and training materials, and provide advice and mentoring to undergraduate and postgraduate students. You will communicate findings through reports, peer-reviewed manuscripts and presentations, and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders and collaborators across partner institutions.



What Success Looks Like:

• LPJ-GUESS is developed and applied to predict distribution and function of Australian vegetation types.
• Model functionality improvements are delivered in collaboration with the project team.
• Data and code are managed to support reproducible research and compliant data stewardship.
• Model documentation and training materials are maintained and kept up to date.
• Research outputs are delivered through reports, publications and presentations to schedule.

Please refer to the Position Description for full details.



About You

• You hold a PhD in a relevant field such as ecosystem ecology, plant ecophysiology, ecohydrology or physical geography.
• You bring strong quantitative skills, including experience in computer programming and mathematical modelling. Experience with process-based vegetation models would be highly regarded.
• You have a sharp, analytical mindset and are confident critically evaluating scientific data and interpreting model outputs.
• Your publication record reflects your career stage, demonstrating your ability to write manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.
• You are highly organised and comfortable working independently while also contributing positively within a collaborative research team.
• You have a genuine enthusiasm for the project and a strong interest in advancing research in this field.

Benefits

We invest in the people who make our mission possible. Alongside a rewarding career, we offer a range of benefits designed to support your financial, personal and family wellbeing.

• Financial benefits: Access to staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, salary sacrifice options for onsite parking, and novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Health and wellbeing support: Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP), complimentary annual flu vaccination, eligibility for Fitness Passport membership, and access to discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare: Long day care and early learning services operate at our Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith campuses. Staff may be eligible for discounted fees and salary packaging, with places subject to centre capacity.

Application Details

• Position Enquiries: Direct to Distinguished Professor Belinda Medlyn via [email protected]. Please include the job reference code REF1467U.
• Closing Date: 11:59pm, Sunday 19 July 2026.
• Visa Sponsorship: Employer Visa sponsorship will be provided if required.
• How to Apply: Please note that only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered. As part of your online application, you will be asked to respond to screening questions addressing the key qualifications, experiences and skills required for this position.

Belonging at Western

We are committed to substantive equality as outlined in our Equal Opportunity Policy. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, candidates of all gender identities and expressions, people of all abilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.



For Reasonable Adjustments during the application process, please contact [email protected].



About Western

This is your opportunity to be part of something bigger. By joining Western Sydney University, you become a valued member of our community. As our region changes, so too does our university. Western is boldly different, energetic, global, diverse, dynamic, and youthful.



Our mission is to deliver student success, impactful research, and stronger communities. As part of our team, you will have a stake in shaping the future of education, broadening horizons, and changing lives. Making a difference starts at Western.



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