Position Details
Research Scientist/Engineer – CSOF5
Role summary for potential applicants
Advertised Job Title:
Soil Isotope Biogeochemist
Reference Number:
4691
Classification:
CSOF5
Salary Range:
AU $92,591 to AU $100,199 plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Location:
Waite Campus, Adelaide, SA
Tenure:
Indefinite
Relocation assistance:
Will be provided to the successful candidate if required.
Australian Citizens Only
Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents Only
All Candidates
Applications are open to:

Functional Area:
Research Scientist / Engineer
% Client Focus - Internal:
20%
% Client Focus - External:
80%
Reports to the:
Group Leader
Number of Direct Reports:
2
Role Overview:
The role of Research Scientist staff in CSIRO is to conduct innovative research leading to scientific
achievements that are aligned with CSIRO's strategies. You may be engaged in scientific activity ranging
from fundamental research to applied research targeted at specific industry/community challenges.
You will have the opportunity to build and maintain networks, play a lead role in securing project funds,
provide scientific leadership and pursue new ideas and approaches to address research priorities.
The Research Scientist will be expected to focus on addressing key issues related to the biogeochemical
cycling of carbon and nitrogen through the application of stable isotopes. They will contribute to the
following key areas of research:

on-going work related to soil carbon accounting and greenhouse gas emissions

quantification of the influence of organic matter content and composition on soil properties and
impacts on sustainability and plant productivity

identification and quantification of the drivers and processes of organic carbon and nitrogen
cycling in soil and other natural environments.
As an indefinite appointment with career development opportunities, the candidate will be expected to
secure both internal and external funds to develop a viable long-term research portfolio consistent with
the strategic directions of the organisation. The role will include line management and supervision of
technical staff.
Research conducted will incorporate a combination of field studies at locations throughout Australia and
laboratory and analytical work conducted at the CSIRO Agriculture Waite Campus. The Adelaide site
provides access to a suite of modern state-of-the-art instrumentation and wider collaborations with
Adelaide University and State research departments.
Duties and Key Result Areas:

Incorporate novel isotopic and other approaches to scientific investigations related to carbon and
nitrogen cycling in soils by adapting and/or developing original concepts and ideas for new, existing
and further research.

Experience in the design, planning and implementation of laboratory and field based research
experiments.

Communicate effectively and respectfully in the interests of good business practice, collaboration
and enhancement of CSIROs reputation.

Produce high quality scientific and/or engineering papers suitable for publication in international
journals and for presentation at national and international conferences.

Work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary research team, to undertake independent scientific
investigations and carry out associated tasks under the guidance of more senior Research
Scientists.

Under the guidance of Senior Research Scientists/ Engineers, work collaboratively with internal and
external colleagues, clients and partners to help define and satisfy objectives for small to medium
research projects.

Assist in leading small research projects, including the negotiation of resource requirements.

Provide coaching and on-the-job training to technical staff and students to ensure experiments are
established in accordance with research design.

Adhere to the spirit and practice of CSIRO’s Values, Health, Safety and Environment plans and
policies, Diversity initiatives and Zero Harm goals.
Other duties as directed.

Selection Criteria:
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed
Pre-Requisites:
1. Education/Qualifications: A doctorate, and/or equivalent experience, in a relevant discipline area
including soil science, agricultural science, biogeochemistry, analytical chemistry or relevant
discipline area.
2. Communication: Strong written and oral communication skills including the ability to publish
research results, prepare reports and present the results of scientific investigations at national and
international conferences and stakeholder meetings.
3. Publications: A solid record of publication in quality, peer reviewed journals.
4. Behaviours: A history of professional and respectful behaviours and attitudes in a collaborative
environment.
Essential Criteria:
1. An understanding of the edaphic, environmental and management drivers and biotic and abiotic
2.
3.
4.
5.
processes controlling the stability of organic carbon and nitrogen in natural environments.
Demonstrated experience in the application of stable isotopes of carbon and/or nitrogen to quantify
the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in soil and/or other biological systems.
Demonstrated knowledge of isotope ratio mass spectrometers operation and hands on experience in
monitoring, maintaining and troubleshooting analyses of solids, liquids and/or gases.
The ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary, regionally dispersed research team, and
carry out independent individual research, to achieve organisational goals.
A record of science innovation and creativity plus the ability & willingness to incorporate novel ideas
and approaches into scientific investigations.
Desirable Criteria:
1. Experience and demonstrated competence in the use of computer simulation to model carbon and
nitrogen dynamics in terrestrial or aquatic environments.
2. Demonstrated experience in a range of relevant analytical, spectroscopic, or biomarker techniques
suitable for characterising soil organic matter and/or the microbial community in soil/sediment
environments.
CSIRO is a values based organisation. You will need to demonstrate behaviours aligned to our values
of:
 Integrity of Excellent Science
 Trust & Respect
 Creative Spirit
 Delivering on Commitments
 Health, Safety & Sustainability
Other special requirements:
Appointment to this role may be subject to conditions including security/medical/character clearance
requirements. Applicants who are not Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents may be required to
undergo additional security clearance processes; which may include medical examinations and an
international standardised test of English language proficiency (i.e. IELTS test).http://www.ielts.org/default.aspx
Other Information:
How to Apply
Please apply for this position online at www.csiro.au/careers. You may be asked to provide additional
information (online) relevant to the selection criteria. If so, then responding will enhance your
application so please take the time to provide relevant succinct answers. Applicants who do not provide
the information when requested may not be considered.
If you experience difficulties applying online call 1300 984 220 and someone will be able to assist you.
Outside business hours please email: csiro-careers@csiro.au.
Referees: If you do not already have the names and contact details of two previous supervisors or
academic/ professional referees included in your resume/CV please add these before uploading your CV.
Contact: If after reading the selection documentation you require further information please contact:
Dr Jeff Baldock via email: Jeff.Baldock@csiro.au or phone: +61 8 8303 8537
Please do not email your application directly to Dr Baldock. Applications received via this method will
not be considered.
About CSIRO
Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, the
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is a powerhouse of ideas,
technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments,
industries, business and communities across the nation.
Find out more! www.csiro.au.
CSIRO Agriculture
Our Agriculture business unit is helping Australian farmers and industry improve productivity and
sustainability across the agriculture sector. The Agriculture business unit will focus on the following
challenges:

crop improvement

livestock and aquaculture genetic improvement

farming systems for productivity and sustainability

interactions between agriculture and the environment; climate change, adaptation and
mitigation; science for health soils

global food security and development.