Research Associate - Perth, Australia - Curtin University

Description

Job Reference:

Your new role

Curtin University is embarking on a journey into the past through the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Project, and we're seeking a passionate Research Associate/Research Fellow to lead the inorganic geochemistry aspects of this multidisciplinary endeavour. Located in the heart of Western Australia's Pilbara region, this project offers a rare opportunity to investigate the long-term preservation potential of world-class rock art. If you're ready to contribute to a deeper understanding of our planet's geological and cultural heritage, we invite you to join us.

This exciting project spans disciplines as diverse as engineering, geology, microbiology, and organic geochemistry, and provides an avenue to develop a better understanding of the complex systems that host world class rock art. For more information about this project we encourage you to visit:

In this role you will:

Implement Analytical Protocols to collect geological data using instruments including, but not limited to, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron microprobe analysis, x-ray diffraction, automated mineral mapping, transmission electron microscopy, and, potentially atom probe analysis. Undertake a range of sample preparation techniques using existing workflows.

Geological Data Management: Coordinate the collection, interpretation, and management of geological data. Data interpretation will benefit from a good understanding of mineralogy and aqueous geochemistry.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Engage with diverse project streams to enhance geological understanding across multiple fields. Provide geological expertise across a range of fields, including geochemical data, sample preparation and analysis, geological mapping; aqueous electrochemistry (pH, redox), portable X-ray fluorescence.

Field Program Leadership: Coordinate and undertake the inorganic geochemical aspects of the field monitoring program in the Pilbara region.

Academic Contribution: Develop educational materials, contribute to co-authoring high-impact journal articles, and engage in teaching related to the project. Document methodologies and lead reporting on the inorganic geochemistry for annual reports and presentations to funding and stakeholder bodies.

Mentorship: Train and support casual staff to undertake routine tasks in the laboratory and field.

What You'll Bring:

A doctoral qualification in geochemistry, aqueous geochemistry, mineral weathering, or a related field.

Proven expertise in geochemical analytical techniques and data interpretation.

A collaborative spirit, excellent organisational skills, and a commitment to safety and inclusivity.

Experience with high-resolution geochemical techniques and field campaign organisation (highly desirable).

A history of successful collaboration with Indigenous communities and mentorship of junior staff (highly desirable).

This role will be based at Curtin University (Bentley campus), and will be supported by the broader MRAMP team. Please also note that interstate and/or overseas travel may be required.

You will require current work rights in Australia that match the tenure of this role. Only in limited situations will visa sponsorship situations be considered.