Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Plant Photosynthesis and Phenotyping for Smart and Sustainable Horticulture Western Sydney University in Australia

Western Sydney University is advertising a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Plant Photosynthesis and Phenotyping within the ARC Training Centre for Smart and Sustainable Horticulture (SaSH).

This is a research-focused opportunity for candidates with a strong background in plant biology, photosynthesis, phenotyping, horticultural crop biochemistry, and related areas of agriculture and environmental science. The role involves applying physiology and phenotyping tools to improve yield and resilience in protected horticulture crops, working with elite germplasm, and translating findings into practical grower guidelines.

The successful applicant will work at the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment / Hawkesbury Campus with flexible arrangements, as part of an interdisciplinary and multi-institutional team with national and international collaborators and commercial partners. Responsibilities include developing and refining phenotyping methods, integrating plant phenotyping platforms, conducting physiological and biochemical screening, publishing peer-reviewed papers, preparing reports and manuscripts, presenting at seminars and conferences, and contributing to grant development.

Eligibility highlights: PhD in plant biology or equivalent experience; expertise in photosynthesis measurements such as gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence, and hyperspectral reflectance; experience with plant phenotyping platforms; and strong skills in enzyme, metabolite, and gene expression analysis. Communication, organisation, and the ability to engage with industry partners and mentor students are also emphasized.

Funding and terms: Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 3 years at Academic Level A, with salary AUD 97,153–117,376 per annum plus 17% superannuation and leave loading. Employer visa sponsorship is available if required.

Application window: Closing date is 11:59 pm, Wednesday 22 July 2026. Applications must be submitted via the university’s online recruitment system using reference code REF1453Y.

For enquiries, contact Professor Oula Ghannoum at [email protected].