- 3-year full-time postdoctoral position in Environmental Soil Chemistry located at the Biomedical Building (C81) of the University of Sydney
- Opportunity to work in a strong research team of scientists to understand the dissolution of silicate minerals and carbon sequestration in soils using laboratory, glasshouse and field experiments
- Base Salary Level A $113,400 - $121,054 + 17% superannuation
About the opportunity
The School of Life and Environmental Sciences is currently seeking a
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Rock Powder to Sequester CO2 and Improve Soil Fertility. The research fellow position is focused on determining the carbon sequestration potential of rock powder in soils using lab, glasshouse and field experiments. The successful candidate with expertise in soil chemistry and mineralogy will work in consultation with the CIs, industry partners and growers in the horticulture sector.
Your key responsibilities will be to:
- work closely with growers, Hort Innovation and an industry partner; reporting to Professor Balwant Singh
- determine the dissolution rate and efficiency of ground rock for carbon sequestration potential at different application rate and climatic conditions in soils
- determine other benefits to plants at different application rates and climatic conditions in soils
- measure rock weathering rate at different pH, application rate and climatic conditions in soils
- produce a methodology for the verification of the amount of CO2 mitigated from enhanced rock weathering technology
- provide data to generate suitability map for the application of enhanced rock weathering technology in Australia
- prepare and present time-bound reports to Hort Innovation and
- present outcome to growers meetings.
About you
The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. As such, we see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for a
Postdoctoral Research Associate who has:
- a strong background and Ph.D. in soil chemistry, or related field
- necessary knowledge and skills in conducting experiments and laboratory analysis, analysing data, and preparing reports and manuscripts for publication in peer reviewed journals
- demonstrated experience in mineralogical analysis using XRD, XRF and chemical procedures
- experience in geochemical modelling in aqueous systems is highly desirable
- skills and abilities required to perform the earlier mentioned duties and responsibilities
- possesses an Australian driver's licence, and
- ability to effectively work independently.
Pre-employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.
EEO statement
At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.
How to apply
Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the
Apply button at the top of the page.
For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your
Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.
For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Professor Balwant Singh by email to balwant.singh@sydney.edu.au. For all other matters, please contact Chris Masaoka, Recruitment Consultant by email at recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au
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The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
Click to view the Position Description for this role.
Applications Close
Sunday 30 November 2025 11:59 PM
