Research Assistant

The Australian Rivers Institute (ARI) was formed in 2006 and is one of Australia's largest university aquatic ecosystem research groups with globally recognised expertise in river, catchment and coastal ecosystems and the interaction with these systems in society. ARI combines outstanding scholarship with making a significant contribution to society through providing knowledge and advice. ARI's talented researchers offer essential insights into the water cycle's linkages, interconnectedness, and interdependencies.

The Soil and Environmental Biogeochemistry Research Assistant will work with the project team to process soil, plant and environmental samples and conduct chemical, physical and biological analyses on these samples for the externally funded research projects.

For this role, the successful applicant is expected to have some practical experience in working in a chemistry or biology lab, and understand the work health and safety, with a minimum BSc or MSc in chemistry, soil science and environmental science.

This Research Assistant (Grade 2) position will contribute to an externally funded, multidisciplinary research project on soil carbon, soil constraints and soil health in both natural and managed ecosystems. Key responsibilities of this position include:

• Prepare soil and environmental samples for analysis, including soil processing and sieving methods tailored for soil chemistry assessments.
• Perform comprehensive chemical, physical, and microbiological analyses on soil, plant, and environmental samples, with a particular focus on carbon content analysis in soil and sediment samples.
• Execute tests within specified timeframes and as directed by the Lab Manager.
• Collaborate effectively with program participants to foster seamless communication and teamwork, supporting the advancement of soil chemistry investigations throughout the project.

About you
To be successful you will hold a Bachelor of Science or equivalent qualifications in chemistry, soil science or equivalent areas and work experience in soil processing and chemical and biological analysis in a laboratory context.

In addition to the above, you will demonstrate:

• Ability to coordinate a diversity of research programs and participants to ensure effective team communication and collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision to meet competing deadlines and work effectively as a member of a team and communicate with a range of stakeholders.

If you would like to work with enthusiastic researchers in a progressive and highly collaborative research environment focused on solving real-world problems, then we would like to hear from you.

What we can offer
This is a fixed term (12 months), full time position and will be primarily based at the Griffith University Nathan campus. As Griffith is a multi-campus University you may be required to work across other campus locations.

Griffith University’s campuses are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

Salary Range
The full time equivalent base salary will be Research Assistant Grade 2 range $80,664 - $84,830 per annum, plus 17% employer superannuation. The total package is in the range $94,377 - $99,251 per annum.