"Postdoctoral Researcher: in novel isotope geochemistry of ore systems"

Job Description:

Level B ($114,917 to $135,932 per annum) plus an employer contribution of 17% superannuation applies.

Postdoctoral Researcher: in novel isotope geochemistry of ore systems.

Fixed term position available for 3 years.

The School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences, The University of Adelaide, invites applications for a 3-year Level B postdoctoral position to undertake research into the isotopic signature of critical mineral ore systems, with a focus on Australian field sites.

Earth Science at the University of Adelaide has been consistently ranked well above world class in the Excellence in Research for Australia national audits. The department has major research strengths in critical minerals geology, crustal processes and tectonics, isotope geochemistry and biogeochemical earth systems. These research strengths are underpinned by an extensive portfolio of world-class analytical and computational facilities and laboratories that support a vibrant postgraduate research community, and research partnerships spanning academia, government and the resources industry.

The successful applicant will be involved primarily in research within this dynamic department. They will be a key member of the Australian Critical Minerals Research Centre and the ARC Training Centre in Critical Resources for the Future, and they may be involved with supervising honours and postgraduate research students. The postdoctoral researcher will have access to the advanced material characterisation and geochemical /isotope facilities at the University (e.g., Adelaide Microscopy, MASS) and to the wider network of expertise at The University of Adelaide, CSIRO, Geoscience Australia, and through the ARC Training Centre.

To be successful you will need:

• A PhD in geology, geochemistry or a related field.
• An established track record of publication in isotope geochemistry and/or critical mineral ore systems.
• Demonstrated expertise in laboratory procedures for geochemical and isotopic analysis of geological materials.
• A strong research track record in one or more of the following earth science fields, including (but not limited to), critical minerals ore systems, economic geology, hydrothermal geochemistry, and regolith geoscience.
• Demonstrable potential to build and maintain collaborations between university, government and the minerals industry for the research project.

The path to Adelaide University

We are on an exciting path to Adelaide University as we prepare to open our doors in January 2026. Adelaide University will combine the strengths of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, and we are dedicated to creating an accessible and future-focused educational powerhouse that fosters economic and social wellbeing through ground-breaking research and innovative teaching. You can learn more about Adelaide University HERE and more information will be provided throughout the recruitment process.

Enjoy an outstanding career environment

We offer a uniquely rewarding workplace. The size, breadth and quality of our education and research programs - including significant industry, government and community collaboration - offers you vast scope and opportunity for a long, fulfilling career.

It also enables us to attract high-calibre people in all facets of our operations, ensuring you will be surrounded by talented colleagues, many world-leading. Our work's cutting-edge nature - not just in your own area, but across virtually the full spectrum of human endeavour - provides a constant source of inspiration.

Our culture is one that welcomes all and embraces diversity consistent with our Staff Values and Behaviour Framework and our Values of integrity, respect, collegiality, excellence and discovery. We firmly believe that our people are our most valuable asset, so we work to grow and diversify the skills, knowledge and capability of all our staff.

We embrace flexibility as a key principle to allow our people to manage the changing demands of work, personal and family life.

In addition, we offer a wide range of attractive staff benefits. These include: salary packaging; flexible work arrangements; high-quality professional development programs and activities; and an on-campus health clinic, gym and other fitness facilities.

Learn more at: adelaide.edu.au/jobs

Your faculty's broader role

The Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology is a multidisciplinary hub of cutting-edge teaching and research. Many of its academic staff are world leaders in their fields and graduates are highly regarded by employers. The Faculty actively partners with innovative industries to solve problems of global significance.

Learn more at: set.adelaide.edu.au

If you have the talent, we'll give you the opportunity. Together, let's make history.

Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to be taken through to the online application form. Please ensure you submit a cover letter, resume, and upload a document that includes your responses to all of the selection criteria for the position as contained in the position description or selection criteria document.

Applications will close 11:55pm (AEST) on 30th September 2025.

For further information

For a confidential discussion regarding this position, contact: Prof Carl Spandler, School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences, E: carl.spandler@adelaide.edu.au