Every institution values excellence. What matters most is why.
Griffith was created to be a different type of university. As a Research Assistant, you’ll find we’re about leading research, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education. But what sets us apart is why those things matter and how you’ll achieve them.

Why? Griffith brings together exceptional minds like yours from across the globe and from all walks of life. Here, we do incredible work, questioning and challenging, always in the pursuit of excellence.

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.

We are seeking a passionate Research Assistant in Soil and Environmental Biogeochemistry who is able to work collaboratively in a dynamic and multidisciplinary team. This role will support ongoing research projects through data collection and soil sample processing. This role will primarily be lab-based but may also assist the field technician with soil and plant sampling activities as required. The role will primarily focus on conducting soil physicochemical and biological analyses using established laboratory methods, while also contributing to the development of new analytical techniques in collaboration with researchers. This position may be extended depending upon the availability of external funding support.

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, plant and other environmental samples for analysis, and this will involve sample processing and sieving, and treatment.
• Conduct chemical, physical and microbiological analysis on soil, plant and environmental samples, particularly in the area of carbon and nutrient analysis of soil and plant samples.
• Complete assigned lab analytical tasks within required timeframes and in accordance with direction from Lab Manager.
• Operate competently some of key lab equipment (e.g., Leco CN analyser, TOC analyser, Gas chromatograph and Segmented flow analyser), and provide maintenance support to the routine operation in the lab.
• Conduct chemical risk and field assessments and ensure the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals, equipment, and samples, while following strict safety protocols.
• Coordinate activities with other program participants to ensure effective team communication and collaboration throughout the lifetime of the projects.
• Develop soil/plant analytical protocols in collaboration with researchers.

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 sample processing and chemical and biological analysis in a laboratory context.

In addition to the above, you will be able to demonstrate:

• Practical experience in a chemistry lab, and sound understanding of workplace health and safety (WHS) practices in laboratory environments.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills and be able to work collaboratively and effectively for multi-disciplinary projects in a team environment as well as independently.
• 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 (until 30 March 2026), full time position primarily based at Griffith University Brisbane South (Nathan). As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to work across other locations.

Griffith University’s sites 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 $84,335 - $88,689 per annum + 17% superannuation. The total FTE package will be in the range $98,672 - $103,767 per annum.

Why join Griffith?
As a values-led organisation, at Griffith University, we've worked hard to create a dynamic and strong organisational culture. We offer:

• Mix of on campus and work from home options available and a supportive work environment
• Salary packaging options and corporate health discounts
• Generous leave entitlements including paid parental leave and leave loading

Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).

How to apply
At Griffith, we’re committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all - whoever you are and wherever you’re from. If you require any accommodations, we welcome you to let us know so we can work with you to participate fully in our recruitment experience.

Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. For more information please visit our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page. Griffith University also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of modern slavery. For more information, please refer to Griffith’s Modern Slavery Policy.

Please submit your application online and ensure it includes the following:

• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role (please refer to the About you section above and the position description)
• Current curriculum vitae/resume including full contact details

Applicants must have unrestricted working rights. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

For further information specifically about this role, please contact Professor Chengrong Chen, Distinguished Professor at [email protected].

For application and recruitment advice, please contact Ms Corinna Gartrell, Talent Acquisition Partner at [email protected].

For application support, please contact People Services on +61 7 373 54011 and quote reference number REF7609B.

Closing date: Thursday 22 May 2025 at 11:59pm AEST. All applications must be submitted online.

Please allow at least 1 – 2 weeks from the closing date to expect an application update.