"Principal Research Fellow – Horticulture"

About this Opportunity

• Fixed-Term (5 years), Full-Time
• Office of the Vice-President – Research
• CQUniversity Bundaberg* (Relocation support available)
• Total Remuneration $192,505 to $210,526 pa (including salary of $162,670 to $177,898 plus 17% superannuation and leave loading)

Join an organisation with an unbreakable belief that quality education, training and research should be available to everyone – regardless of background, location or life circumstances.

Working at CQUniversity

CQUniversity’s School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences is home to the Institute for Future Farming Systems, a national leader in applied research supporting the productivity and sustainability of Australia’s horticultural industries. With a strong presence across regional Queensland, the Institute works with growers, industry partners and global collaborators to deliver practical, high‑impact solutions in farming systems, crop production and AgTech innovation. Based in Bundaberg, one of Australia’s premier horticultural regions - the team is uniquely positioned to work at the intersection of science, technology and industry needs.

We are seeking a Principal Research Fellow – Horticulture to lead a high‑performing research portfolio within this dynamic environment. In this role, you will provide strategic and operational leadership, strengthen industry partnerships, drive impactful research across horticultural science and technology, and secure competitive funding. You will oversee major projects, mentor research staff and students, and help shape the future direction of CQUniversity’s horticulture research. This opportunity is ideal for a research leader passionate about delivering outcomes that benefit industry, communities and the broader agricultural sector.

Position Requirements

• Doctoral qualification (PhD or equivalent) with substantial experience in a relevant horticultural, agricultural, or related research discipline.
• Strong research leadership record, including securing competitive external funding, leading major research programs, and producing high‑quality publications (with Scopus H‑index and journal impact factors).
• Demonstrated excellence in building and maintaining industry, community, and stakeholder partnerships, with the ability to translate research into real‑world impact.
• Proven capability in supervising and mentoring research staff and higher-degree research students, contributing to capability development across the team.
• Experience contributing to curriculum or research training development and supporting high‑quality academic standards through effective communication and collaboration.

Position Description

For further information about this position, please refer to the Position Description.

Applications Close: 11:59pm, Thursday, 26 February 2026

Job Requisition ID: 6910

Contact Details:

Amy Cosby
0405824112
a.cosby@cqu.edu.au

When submitting your application, please include: Your Current CV or Resume, and a 1-2 page Cover Letter highlighting your relevant skills, experience and suitability for the position. Please note, applicants for the position must have full time work rights.

Work Rights: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Candidates must hold the full rights to work in Australia to be considered for this appointment.

*A condition of employment for this role is relocation to the Bundaberg region (relocation support available). Please confirm your willingness to relocate in your application.