Science jobs

• Deliver high-integrity stock assessment science
• Lead the development of harvest rules to support sustainable fisheries
• Full time, ongoing role based in Hobart

About the opportunity

The Stock Assessment Scientist – Benthic Invertebrates will play a critical role in delivering high-quality, objective, and trusted science to guide the sustainable management of Tasmania’s Benthic Invertebrates fisheries, including Abalone. The appointee will lead analytical and assessment activities that directly inform Government decision-making on Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and regional harvest strategies. This position operates at the interface of science, policy, and industry, translating complex ecological and statistical evidence into clear, defensible advice that supports long-term sustainable productivity.

What you’ll do:

• Deliver high-quality stock assessments that provide robust, transparent, and defensible scientific advice to Government.
• Lead the development, refinement, and communication of empirical harvest control rules and assessment methodologies.
• Produce timely and accurate technical reports, figures, data summaries, and ministerial briefing materials.
• Maintain strong, professional working relationships with Government agencies and industry stakeholders.
• Support continuous improvement of the abalone assessment program, including data stewardship, methodological innovation, quality assurance, and research initiatives.

What we’re looking for:

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Demonstrated expertise, or proven capacity to deliver quantitative stock assessment for benthic invertebrates.
• Strong understanding of abalone fisheries legislation, harvest strategies, and sustainability frameworks.
• Excellent communication skills with experience engaging industry stakeholders and delivering clear, high-quality technical advice in complex or high-pressure settings.
• Capacity to manage conflicting interests, ensuring scientific independence and alignment with national and international best-practices.
• Australian Drivers Licence.

Salary details

Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level C and will have a total remuneration package of up to $184,076 comprising base salary within the range of $138,536 to $157,330 plus 17% superannuation.

How to Apply

• To apply online, please provide the following supporting documentation:
  • Resume
  • Cover letter outlining your suitability and motivation for the role
  • Your responses to the success criteria from the Position Description below
• For further information about this position, please contact Professor Sean Tracey, Centre Head, Fisheries & Aquaculture/Director, SMRCA, sean.tracey@utas.edu.au or +61 3 6226 8286
• Please visit https://www.utas.edu.au/jobs/applying for our guide to applying and details on the recruitment process.
• For current UTAS staff, in submitting your application, you acknowledge you have/intend to discuss your interest in this vacancy with your current manager and understand they may need to be contacted confidentially by the hiring manager as part of the assessment of your application.
• Please refer to the attached Position Description Below for full details.

Applications close Wednesday, 21 January 2026, 11.55pm

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the Palawa/Pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.