Principal Research Scientist - Applied Ecology

The Principal Research Scientist holds a key science leadership position within the Arthur Rylah Institute (ARI). The Principal Research Scientist will develop and manage large projects that address ecological questions, often employing new and innovative techniques, to inform policy and land management. The Principal Research Scientist will operate as a high-level specialist/researcher with excellent demonstrated experience and a highly regarded record of research in applied ecology. The successful candidate will have extensive experience in leading the delivery of high-quality biodiversity research, including project and staff management expertise and demonstrated ability to deliver project outputs within agreed budgets and timelines. The Principal Research Scientist, as a member of the Community Ecology leadership team, will build and maintain effective relationships with a range of stakeholders, and secure and manage resources to deliver agreed outcomes for ARI. The position requires science excellence, strong leadership skills, collaboration and stakeholder management skills. 

The successful candidate will contribute as part of the team at the Arthur Rylah Institute to support the management of biodiversity in Victoria. The role requires science excellence, strong leadership, collaboration and stakeholder management skills.

The key accountabilities for the role include to:

• Lead the development of emerging and strategic research projects to address complex environmental management problems, as both a subject matter expert and as a leader of research teams.
• Manage research partnerships to successfully resource and deliver agreed outcomes.
• Provide authoritative advice, information and recommendations to executive management and stakeholders on biodiversity research, key issues and solutions.
• Contribute effectively as a member of the Community Ecology Leadership Team. 

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A post-graduate science degree (preferably PhD) with a major in ecology or equivalent is mandatory.
• Demonstrated experience in science leadership and co-ordination of large scale multi-disciplinary ecological research teams, including the ability to provide scientific and technical services and to generate high quality advice, reports, and scientific papers.
• Proven ability to engage with partners and stakeholders to secure funding and deliver innovative ecological research.

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is Heidelberg with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers. 

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Applications close 11.59pm on Monday, 02 March 2026. 

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace

DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave. For more information visit applying for a role with us.