"Research Fellow in Behaviour and Ecology"

Role type:

Full Time; Fixed Term for 2 years

Faculty:

Faculty of Science

Department/ School:

School of Biosciences

Salary:

Level A: $87,266 - $118,416 (PhD Entry Level - $110,319) plus 17% super

• Collaborate with leading experts on innovative research to develop an independent research program.
• Apply now for this exciting opportunity to advance our understanding of animal construction behaviours and their thermal implications.
• Investing in you - benefits package including salary packaging, health and wellbeing programs, discounted services, and professional development opportunities.

The University of Melbourne

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Your next career opportunity

As a Research Fellow in the School of Biosciences, you'll join an exciting research project exploring how animals adjust their construction behaviours in response to changing environments. You'll work closely with Dr. Iliana Medina, analysing long-term datasets and investigating the thermal value of nests in birds. This role offers you the chance to develop your own research program, collaborate with researchers across institutions, and contribute to the supervision of students, all while advancing our understanding of animal behaviour and its implications in a changing world.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Conduct High-Quality Research: Perform complex data analysis, potentially involving advanced statistical approaches, to contribute to the research team's efforts.
• Publish Scholarly Outputs: Contribute to and publish academic papers in high-impact journals, disseminating research findings through seminars and conferences.
• Supervise and Mentor: Assist in the co-supervision and training of research students at all levels, contributing to their academic development.
• Contribute to Teaching: Participate in teaching, training, and scientific mentoring of graduate and honours students.
• Engage in Service Activities: Actively participate in School meetings, planning activities, and committee work to support capacity building and promote diversity and inclusion.
• Promote Public Awareness: Contribute to or present research to the public, elevating awareness of scientific developments and promoting critical inquiry.

You may be a great fit if:

You are a dedicated researcher with a passion for animal behaviour and a commitment to advancing scientific understanding through rigorous research and collaboration.

You may also:

• Possess a PhD or equivalent qualification in a relevant field, such as animal behaviour, ecology, or biology.
• Have experience in conducting high-quality research, data analysis, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Possess excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively disseminate research findings.
• Have experience in supervising or mentoring students, or a willingness to develop these skills.
• Exhibit a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and ethical conduct in research and academic activities.

What we offer you!

We offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits to support your success and sense of fulfillment, including:

• Supportive flexible work arrangements underpinned by our commitment to inclusion and well-being
• Progressive, considerate leave provisions to empower your work-life balance
• Salary packaging and access to a range of discounted services including Bupa health insurance
• Health and well-being services including a leading Employee Assistance Program

For more information check out our benefits page!

If this role is right for you, please apply with the following 4 documents:

• Resume (max 4 pages)
• Cover Letter outlining your interests and experience(one page)
• Copy of the most relevant/recent publication that showcases your data visualisation skills (just one, it can be a preprint)
• The responses against the following 5 Selection Criteria (separate document, max 4 pages):

1. Completion (or near completion) of a PhD in ecology, behavioural ecology, or a related discipline.
2. A demonstrated aptitude for research, with a sound publication record in relevant areas, commensurate with experience and opportunities.
3. Demonstrated experience in Bayesian or other statistical approaches, and high proficiency and interest in programming and data visualisation.
4. A good level of understanding of bird (or vertebrate) diversity and ecology.
5. Non-essential: Experience in thermal ecology or climate change related research & experience in the field with birds or other vertebrates

Learn more about the application process, including tips and FAQs.

Applications close: 19 January 2026 at 11:55 PM; Melbourne time zone.