Postdoctoral Researcher in Agriculture – Western Sydney University, Australia
Quick Overview
Western Sydney University is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to advance research into drought-resilient cropping systems through innovative soil, plant and environmental science. You’ll contribute to the Novel Soil Amendments for Drought Resilient Cropping Systems project, investigating soil function, crop productivity and drought resilience. Based at either the Australian Cotton Research Institute, Narrabri or the Trangie Agricultural Research Centre, Trangie, NSW, you’ll conduct field trials and contribute to peer-reviewed publications and stakeholder engagement.
Experience Level: PhD in Agriculture, Plant Science, Soil Science, or related discipline
Best Fit: Candidates with postdoctoral experience in abiotic stress tolerance, ideally drought stress
Deadline: August 16, 2026
Key Details
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher in Agriculture |
| Project | Novel Soil Amendments for Drought Resilient Cropping Systems |
| University | Western Sydney University |
| Locations | Hawkesbury campus (with flexible working in Narrabri and Trangie, NSW) |
| Qualification | PhD in Agriculture, Plant Science, Soil Science, or related discipline |
| Classification | Academic Level B |
| Salary | $123,327 – $145,625 per annum + 17% Super and Leave Loading |
| Duration | 3 Years Fixed-Term |
| Deadline | August 16, 2026 |
| Reference | REF1667H |
| Apply Via | Western Sydney University online recruitment system |
| Contact | Jay Bose – J.Bose@westernsydney.edu.au |
What Makes This Position Stand Out
Western Sydney University is ranked number one in the world for its commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and in the top 2% of universities worldwide . This position offers the opportunity to work on drought-resilient cropping systems through innovative soil, plant and environmental science, with field trials conducted at the Australian Cotton Research Institute, Narrabri or the Trangie Agricultural Research Centre. You’ll collaborate with industry and research partners while contributing to high-impact research outcomes.
What You’ll Actually Be Doing
- Design and deliver field-based and controlled environment experiments
- Investigate soil function, crop productivity and drought resilience
- Analyze and interpret complex datasets using field, laboratory and sensor-based methodologies
- Develop evidence-based recommendations to improve soil and crop management practices
- Contribute to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, conference presentations and stakeholder engagement
- Support research funding opportunities through grant development
- Co-supervise honours and higher degree research students
Who Should Apply
Essential Requirements:
- Doctoral qualification in Agriculture, Plant Science, Soil Science or a related discipline
- Demonstrated postdoctoral or equivalent research experience in improving abiotic stress tolerance in plants, ideally relating to drought stress
- Proven experience in experimental design, research delivery, data analysis and interpretation within agricultural systems
- Track record of scholarly outputs including peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations
- Strong stakeholder engagement, communication and organisational skills
- Capacity to undertake field research in regional and remote locations
- Hold, or obtain, a current Australian driver’s licence
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $123,327 – $145,625 per annum + 17% Super |
| Duration | 3 Years Fixed-Term |
| Location | Hawkesbury campus with flexible working |
| Field Sites | Narrabri or Trangie, NSW |
| Financial Benefits | Staff banking offers, salary sacrifice, novated leasing |
| Health & Wellbeing | EAP, flu vaccination, Fitness Passport, discounted health cover |
| Childcare | Onsite at multiple campuses |
Application Tips
- Highlight drought stress research experience – Key requirement.
- Show experimental design expertise – Field and controlled environment research.
- Demonstrate publication record – Peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
- Address screening questions – Part of the online application process.
- Apply online only – Applications via the University’s recruitment system only.
- Include reference code – REF1667H in enquiries.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the Western Sydney University online recruitment system.
As part of your online application, respond to screening questions addressing key qualifications, experiences, and skills required.
Position Enquiries: Jay Bose – J.Bose@westernsydney.edu.au (include reference REF1667H)
Closing Date: August 16, 2026 at 11:59pm
Working Rights: Employer Visa Sponsorship will be provided if required.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the duration? 3 Years Fixed-Term.
- What is the salary? $123,327 – $145,625 per annum + 17% Super.
- What locations are available? Hawkesbury campus with flexible working arrangements in Narrabri and Trangie.
- What is the project focus? Drought-resilient cropping systems and soil amendments.
- Is visa sponsorship available? Yes, employer visa sponsorship will be provided if required.
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Thank you for your support and feedback .