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Job Title


Research Scientist Benthic Ecology NT


Company : Australian Institute of Marine Science


Location : Darwin, Northern Territory


Created : 2026-02-07


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

About AIMSThe Australian Institute of Marine Science is Australia''s tropical marine research agency.We are a trusted advisor, a partner and employer of choice, and we value integrity, innovation, collaboration and respect. AIMS'' research of Australia''s tropical marine ecosystems guides their effective environmental management and contributes to our understanding of similar ecosystems around the world.Our research seeks to deliver practical benefit to all Australians and supports the sustainable use of our tropical marine estate. Governments, reef managers, industry and the wider community look to our high-quality, long-term research for informed decisions about our iconic Great Barrier Reef, North-West Shelf, and Arafura and Timor Seas. AIMS expert teams at our locations in Townsville, Darwin and Perth have access to world-class infrastructure, unique datasets, cutting-edge laboratories, and a fleet of modern research vessels.About this exciting opportunityAs AIMS'' Research Scientist Benthic Ecology NT you will lead and actively participate in ongoing collaborative projects to improve the understanding of coastal and oceanic benthic communities in Northern Australia. This role will see you deliver taxonomic and spatial data interpretation and communicate scientific findings through reports, conference presentations and scientific publications.You will work with local stakeholders and Traditional Owners to create economic, social and environmental benefits for marine industries and coastal communities along with developing, sourcing funds and executing research projects that contribute to sustainable use of the northern Australia marine estate.About youAs a Research Scientist you will hold a PhD in marine science, ecology or bring extensive hands-on experience in benthic ecology coupled with demonstrated experience with the identification and ecology of tropical benthic communities, including spatial ecology, patterns and drivers of biodiversity, population dynamics.You will have demonstrated abilities in experimental design and statistical analysis of ecological/biological data sets and experience executing design in the field along with experience managing, and actively working on the entire project lifecycle, from concept design in consultation with Industry and Traditional Owner partners through to scientific outputs and societal impact.Our ideal candidate will have research and field work experience in Northern Australia with First Nations People and hold a Restricted Coxswain and Restricted Radio Operators Licence, Current Senior First Aid and Drivers licence.Apply nowIn line with our Enterprise Agreement the successful candidate will be rewarded with:AIMS AOF Level 5 salary ($122,283 to $134,056 per annum) plus 15.4% superannuationFull-time, Permanent opportunityLocated in Darwin (NT)9-day fortnight, enjoy a long weekend each fortnightFlexible Work Arrangements considered including hybrid working (where suitable)Generous and supportive leave entitlementsAccess to Commuter car fleet arrangements to travel to site (in Townsville only)Salary Sacrifice opportunitiesAccess to Fitness Passport program, offering discounted membership to selected gymsEmployee Assistance ProgramRelocation assistance availablePlease noteNon-Australian Citizens must hold an appropriate Visa with working entitlements that allows paid employment with AIMS from commencement and for the term of the appointment, depending on the relevant Department of Home Affairs current policies. AIMS may be able to consider sponsorship for international applicants for this role, however, please note that visa processing times can impact the ability for AIMS to consider sponsorship for vacancies. AIMS must meet the requirements of the Department of Home Affairs immigration policies and processes, including the necessity to test the local labour market for suitable applicants. This includes international talent pool members who are Australian visa holders who have relevant working rights.Next StepFurther information about this exciting and challenging opportunity is outlined in the Candidate Information Pack which is available to download from our website www.aims.gov.au. If, after reviewing the position description and selection criteria included in the Candidate Information Pack, you believe that your qualifications, experience and professional capabilities will enable you to successfully deliver the position responsibilities, we encourage you to make an application via our website.Submitting your ApplicationPlease ensure that you have your completed documents (selection criteria responses, resume and cover letter) ready to attach to your online application form via our e-recruitment system which can be accessed via our website www.aims.gov.au.Position enquiriesPosition enquiries are to be directed to Claire Streten, Research Program Director - Program 2 at [email protected]. Applications must be made through our website per above.Applications closeSUNDAY, 22 FEBRUARY 2026 (11.45PM, AEST).Acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia''s first scientistsAIMS acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia''s first scientists. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past, present and future, and the custodians of the land and sea Country on which we work. #J-18808-Ljbffr