We're Hiring!

James Cook University (JCU) is creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally and globally.

We now have an exciting opportunity for a Research Worker to join our team in TropWATER in the Research Division and work with the Townsville-based marine research team.

• Full-time and fixed-term for up to two years   
• Located at the Bebegu Yumba campus in Townsville
• HEWL 5 $78,740 - $89,310 p.a. plus up to 17% employer superannuation contributions, leave loading and other generous employee benefits

About TropWATER

The Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER) is Australia’s premiere tropical aquatic research group and is an amalgamation of aquatic expertise from across James Cook University (JCU). The Centre comprises of over 150 staff and 100 post-graduate students and performs research in fields related to water science, resource management and the ecology of water ecosystems.

What you can accomplish in the role 

• Plan, coordinate and supervise field operations, including working in remote areas both at sea and on land.
• Provide high level support to project management through timely delivery of milestones to external clients, including processing eDNA samples in the laboratory (targeted eDNA and eDNA metabarcoding), data entry and analysis, and report preparation.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues within the research team to ensure strong working relationships with staff and stakeholders internal and external to the University.
• Mentor HDR students and volunteers in the laboratory.
• Use a number of word processing, high-performance computing, statistical and genetics software packages to convey data information in client reporting.
• Ensure laboratory, sampling equipment and other resources are well maintained and operating effectively by undertaking the regular maintenance of equipment, and by organising repairs and purchases where necessary.

What you can bring to the role 

• At least a Bachelor of Science or equivalent.
• Organisational and project-management skills, including a strong record of meeting tight deadlines.
• Hands-on experience in PCR and qPCR assay design, optimisation, setup, and data analysis, including troubleshooting and quality control.
• Experience in next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation, from sample processing through to sequencing-ready libraries.
• Field experience in eDNA sample collection, including survey design, contamination control, and field logistics across diverse environments.
• Experience engaging with external stakeholders and clients, including providing technical advice, reporting results, and managing professional relationships.

Why JCU? 

JCU offers a culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth. Employee wellbeing is at the core of our values, and we support our people through the provision of flexible working conditions and many other benefits including;

• A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
• 5 weeks of annual recreation leave and 15 days of paid sick/personal/carers leave per year
• Cultural leave and Flexible working options
• Attractive options for salary packaging
• Fitness Passport
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development support
• Access to online media subscriptions
• Well-equipped campus facilities including medical, cafes, gym and childcare.

What Matters to us at JCU? 

Our People – Our staff, students, and the communities we serve

Our Education – Knowledge has the power to change lives

Our Place – the Tropics and beyond

Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation

How to Apply 

Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.

To learn more about TropWATER visit our website: https://www.tropwater.com/. 

To read more about this opportunity and view the supporting documentation, click the ‘apply’ button to be redirected to the JCU careers page and follow the below steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Upload your current resume
3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success in the role. 

Candidates must have current Australian working rights to be considered for this role. 

Applications close Sunday 5th April 2026 at 11:55 PM AEST.

For any enquiries about the role, please contact Dr Cecilia Villacorta Rath at cecilia.villacortarath@jcu.edu.au.

About our process

At JCU, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of the role and align with our values.

Please visit our Information Privacy Policy to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.

James Cook University encourages people from all backgrounds who meet role requirements to apply.  We value and celebrate the diversity of our community and are committed to ensuring our learning and working environment is safe and welcoming.