Research Academic (Level A/B) in Wood Science

Based in the College of Science located at the Mount Gambier Campus

Full-time, fixed-term contract available until December 2030

Salary range: (Level A) $81,293 - $109,307 / (Level B) $114,917 - $135,932 per annum (plus 17% superannuation)

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters

The successful candidate will be expected to work closely with local sawn timber and composite manufacturers to identify issues and help solve them, while also undertaking more fundamental research that helps advance the industry in the Green Triangle Region.

The team

The successful candidate reports to the Director and is part of a research team addressing silviculture, forest health, growth/yield modelling and timber properties. Part of the team is based at the Mawson Lakes campus in Adelaide, but the incumbent will be expected to be based in Mount Gambier.

Visit the AU website to learn more about the School of Agriculture, Food & Wine.

The Location

Mount Gambier is a medium sized town located midway between Melbourne and Adelaide. The city is within the Green Triangle, a region containing 19 % of Australia’s plantation resource. The city is located within 30 km of the coast and 50 km of the Coonawarra wine growing region. The Adelaide University campus is a growing part of the city with two new buildings and an expanding enrolment in health allied disciplines and education.

Our people

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys variety and meeting new people. You will experience a range of tasks and interactions, keeping your workday interesting and engaging.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:

Essential – Level A

• PhD in Wood Science or Material Science and with some experience working in a specialised role in this field, which has resulted in publications in refereed journals or other demonstrated scholarly activities.
• Expert knowledge of timber processing, wood chemistry and anatomy with a strong background in timber mechanics.
• Ability to develop a research program in collaboration with local industry from design through to management.
• Strong communication skills, including a demonstrated ability to successfully develop constructive professional relationships, positively interact with a broad range of audiences (internal and external) and willingness to research and provide solutions.
• Well-developed organisational and time management skills to meet tight deadlines, a high attention to detail and an ability to report, analyse and present findings to industry partners.
• Ability to work autonomously and in a team environment with limited direction.

Essential – Level B

• PhD in Wood Science or Material Science and 3 to 5 years of experience working in a specialised role in this field, which has resulted in publications in refereed journals or other demonstrated scholarly activities.
• Expert knowledge of timber processing, wood chemistry and anatomy with a strong background in timber mechanics.
• Evidence of ability to secure extramural support.
• Ability to develop research program in collaboration with local industry from design through to management.
• Strong communication skills, including a demonstrated ability to successfully develop constructive professional relationships, positively interact with a broad range of audiences (internal and external) and willingness to research and provide solutions.
• Highly developed organisational and time management skills to meet tight deadlines, a high attention to detail and an ability to report, analyse and present findings to industry partners.
• Ability to work autonomously and in a team environment with limited direction.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Launch your future with Adelaide University now.

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:

• your current CV
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role

The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.

Submit your application by 11:30pm Sunday 7 June 2026

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 492967):

Georgia Viola
Talent Acquisition Adviser
+61 8 8302 1700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au