Research Fellow in Modelling Vegetation-Fire Interactions in Australia

• Full-time, fixed-term position for 2 years.
• Based at Hawkesbury Campus with flexible working arrangements.
• Salary: Academic Level B $123,327 – $145,625 per annum, plus 17% Super and Leave Loading.

Model vegetation–fire dynamics to inform future ecosystem management across Australia.

The Opportunity
We're seeking a Research Fellow contribute to the development of a dynamic vegetation model for Australian ecosystems, with a focus on interactions between vegetation, climate and fire. Working within the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, you will apply process-based modelling to forecast future shifts in vegetation types and fire regimes.

You will extend and apply the LPJ‑GUESS dynamic vegetation model to examine how climate change and fire influence vegetation distribution, fuel load and flammability. This includes testing parameterisations for major Australian vegetation types and assessing how management actions, such as fuel reduction burning, may alter future ecosystem structure and composition.

You will collaborate with internal and external partners, including the NSW Bushfire and Natural Hazards Research Centre, and engage with First Nations communities to incorporate Indigenous perspectives and cultural burning into model projections. You will communicate findings through reports, peer‑reviewed publications and presentations.​

What Success Looks Like:

• Vegetation–fire models are extended, tested and documented to a high standard.
• Robust datasets and parameterisations are developed for Australian vegetation types.
• Model outputs inform understanding of management impacts on future ecosystems.
• Research data and code are managed to ensure reproducibility and compliance.
• Findings are published in refereed journals and shared with stakeholders.

Please refer to the Position Description for full details.

About You

• You’ve completed a PhD in a relevant field such as ecosystem ecology, plant ecophysiology, ecohydrology or physical geography. Knowledge or experience in fire ecology would be highly regarded.
• You bring strong quantitative skills, including experience with computer programming and mathematical modelling. Exposure to process‑based vegetation models, and the ability to evaluate model outputs, will be an advantage.
• You’re a critical thinker, with the ability to assess scientific data and interpret model outputs with rigour.
• Well organised and proactive, you’re confident managing research projects, engaging effectively with stakeholders, and meeting project deadlines.
• You have experience writing for publication, with a track record of peer‑reviewed outputs appropriate to your career stage.

Benefits
We invest in the people who make our mission possible. Alongside a rewarding career, we offer a range of benefits designed to support your financial, personal and family wellbeing.

• Financial benefits: Access to staff-only products and offers with selected banking partners, salary sacrifice options for onsite parking, and novated motor vehicle leasing.
• Health and wellbeing support: Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP), complimentary annual flu vaccination, eligibility for Fitness Passport membership, and access to discounted private health cover.
• Onsite childcare: Long day care and early learning services operate at our Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith campuses. Staff may be eligible for discounted fees and salary packaging, with places subject to centre capacity.

Application Details

• Position Enquiries: Direct to Distinguished Professor Belinda Medlyn via B.Medlyn@westernsydney.edu.au. Please include the job reference code REF1468Y.
• Closing Date: 11:59pm, Sunday 19 July 2026.
• Visa Sponsorship: Employer Visa sponsorship will be provided if required.
• How to Apply: Please note that only applications submitted via the University’s online recruitment system will be considered. As part of your online application, you will be asked to respond to screening questions addressing the key qualifications, experiences and skills required for this position.

Belonging at Western
We are committed to substantive equality as outlined in our Equal Opportunity Policy. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous Australians, candidates of all gender identities and expressions, people of all abilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

For Reasonable Adjustments during the application process, please contact talentacquisitionteam@westernsydney.edu.au.

About Western
This is your opportunity to be part of something bigger. By joining Western Sydney University, you become a valued member of our community. As our region changes, so too does our university. Western is boldly different, energetic, global, diverse, dynamic, and youthful.

Our mission is to deliver student success, impactful research, and stronger communities. As part of our team, you will have a stake in shaping the future of education, broadening horizons, and changing lives. Making a difference starts at Western.

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