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Overview:Part -time (0.8 FTE ), Fixed Term position for 3 Years Salary Academic Level C 1 ($ 141 ,247 p.a. pro rata ) + 17% Superannuation and Flexible Working Arrangements Based at the Bundoora West campus, but may be required to work and/or be based at other campuses of the University About You We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Fellow to join the Environmental Biotechnology Laboratory led by Distinguished Professor Andy Ball , based in the Department of Biology, School of Science at RMIT University (Bundoora campus) . This role is part of the Solving Plastic Waste CRC and will contribute to a major research initiative focused on understanding and addressing microplastic contamination in agricultural environments. As a Senior Research Fellow, you will lead and contribute to impactful research that bridges science, community engagement, and industry collaboration. Your work will help develop a national data inventory on microplastics in agricultural soils and food products, including the traditional food chain. Youll also play a key role in shaping methods for sample collection, analysis, and data interpretation, working in partnership with local communities, industry stakeholders, and Indigenous groups. This position suits a candidate with a strong background in environmental science, analytical chemistry, soil science, or a related discipline, who thrives in interdisciplinary and applied research settings. You will be expected to lead high-quality research projects, publish in top-tier journals, attract competitive research funding, and build collaborative networks both nationally and internationally. Key responsibilities include: Developing and standardising methods to detect and analyse microplastics in soils and livestock. Establishing an Australian data inventory on microplastic contamination. Leading the preparation of research grant applications and peer-reviewed publications. Building collaborations with community, industry, and research partners. Supervising postgraduate research students and contributing to the academic life of the School . Managing project timelines and deliverables to ensure research objectives are met. Sharing research outcomes through conferences, seminars, and public engagement. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant research program with real-world impact. If you are passionate about environmental science and ready to take the next step in your research career, we encourage you to apply. To be successful in this position, youll meet the following Key Selection Criteria : Skills and knowledge in developing a citizen science program. Extensive experience in microplastic pollution research. Project management experience working with a range of stakeholders . Demonstrated experience with working with Traditional Owners and Indigenous Communities. Proven track record of publishing and reporting to stakeholders . Strong communication skills. Proven ability to undertake scientific research and development in research programs. Demonstrated ability to work effectively both as a member of a research team and independently when required, to meet project outcomes and milestones. Ability to supervise postgraduate research students. Ability to contribute to the teaching and learning program in a relevant field. Qualifications : Mandatory: PhD in Ecotoxicology or Environmental Science or in a relevant field. Please Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children and National Police Check. About the RMIT STEM College The STEM College holds a leading position and expertise in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and health (STEM) fields . We are uniquely positioned to influence and partner with industry, as never before. STEM College is a community of exceptional STEM researchers, teachers, inventors, designers and game-changers , supported by talented professional staff. We offer higher education programs across all STEM disciplines at the Bachelor, Master and PhD levels, and ensure our students experience an education that is work-aligned and life-changing. The College is renowned for its exemplary research in many STEM areas including advanced manufacturing and design; computing technologies; health innovation and translational medicine; nano materials and devices; and sustainable systems. Our brilliant researchers attract funding from government and industry sources. Industry is at the heart of what we do. It ensures our research has real world impact, and our students are truly work-ready . Under the leadership of DVC STEM College & Vice President, Digital Innovation, we have established new hubs of industry-connected digital innovation and endeavour and are engaging with global STEM organisations at scale. Our diversity and shared values empower our work, and we are proud of the Colleges inclusive, caring culture. We offer a safe, dynamic work environment, and support every member of our community of achieve their potential. The College appointed Victorias first ever Dean of STEM, Diversity & Inclusion in 2020, and this role drives gender equity, diversity and inclusion strategies across the College. STEM College employs 1,000 staff who deliver onshore and offshore programs to approximately 20,000 students. We are here to positively impact the world and create the next generation of STEM leaders. The School of Science provides more than 45 bachelor and postgraduate programs to 5,000 students and undertakes world-class research across the disciplines of: Applied Chemistry and Environmental Sciences Biology Food Technology and Nutrition Mathematics and Geospatial Sciences Physics To Apply Please submit your CV and covering letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria for this position by clicking on the Apply link at the top of this page. For further information about this position, please see the Position Description hyperlinked below or contact Distinguished Professor Andy Ball via email andy.ball@rmit.edu.au . For further information regarding recruitment processes, please contact Jennifer Pham, Senior Talent Acquisition Advisor via email at jennifer.pham2@rmit.edu.au Please do not share your application to this email address. Position Description Senior Research Fellow Applications Close:6 July 2025 11.59 pmRMIT is an equal opportunity employer committed to being a child safe organisation. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community and we strongly encourage applications from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Isla n der community. At RMIT, we are committed to supporting adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, as well as during employment. We actively support and encourage people with disability to apply to RMIT (including alternate formats of application forms) . To discuss adjustment requirements, please contact Dani, v ia talentsupport@rmit.edu.au or visit our Careers page for more contact information - .We are a Circle Back Initiative Employer we commit to respond to every applicant. #J-18808-Ljbffr