Research Scientist in Coleoptera

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The opportunity

CSIRO is seeking a PhD-qualified entomologist to join the Australian National Insect Collection (ANIC) within the National Research Collections Australia. As part of a research collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), this role will focus on producing a comprehensive, morphology-based monograph of ~150 Cerambycidae (longhorn beetle) species of quarantine concern, including identification keys, diagnostic files, and DNA barcodes.

Working under the guidance of Dr Adam Ślipiński, the successful applicant will contribute to world-class research in insect taxonomy and systematics, and also support the upcoming volume of the “Australian Beetles” series.

ANIC is Australia’s largest insect collection and part of CSIRO’s broader natural history research hub, which integrates taxonomy, diagnostics, genomics, and ecology with national biosecurity priorities.

Your duties will include:

Under the direction of the supervising research scientist, this Research Scientist will:

• Lead and deliver a research project on longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) of quarantine concern, including:
  • A taxonomic review of approximately 150 species
  • Development of DNA barcoding and genomic data for species identification
  • Creation of diagnostic tools and morphological keys
  • Contribution to biosecurity diagnostics for Australian border use
  • Participation in the Longhorn Beetle Diagnostic Forum
  • Reporting and presentation of research findings
• Contribute to Cerambycidae chapters for the Australian Beetles book series
• Prepare scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication
• Support and enhance CSIRO’s insect research collections
• Undertake high-impact research aligned with CSIRO’s strategic goals
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders
• Proactively build researcher capabilities and pursue professional development
• Follow CSIRO’s Values, Code of Conduct, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) policies, and diversity initiatives
• Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams and perform other duties as required

Location: Black Mountain, Canberra, Australia

Salary: AU$114k - AU$123k plus up to 15.4% superannuation

Tenure: Specified term of 3 years

Reference: 99906

To be considered you will need:

Essential

• A PhD and at least one postdoctoral appointment in systematic entomology
• Proven ability to design and conduct large-scale systematic research on beetles (Coleoptera), including morphological revisions, species descriptions, and development of identification keys
• Practical experience with molecular genetics and associated lab techniques
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience publishing research, preparing reports, and presenting at conferences and stakeholder meetings

Desirable

• Experience designing and producing major taxonomic monographs and/or books
• Demonstrated success in writing grant proposals and securing external research funding
• Proven ability to approach complex, undefined problems with innovation, creativity, and novel research methods

For full details about this role, please review the Position Description

Eligibility

Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens, Australian Permanent Residents or you must either hold, or be able to obtain, a valid working visa for the duration of the specified term. Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements.

Flexible working arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. 

Diversity and inclusion

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

About CSIRO

At CSIRO Australia's national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. We put the safety and wellbeing of our people above all else and earn trust everywhere because we only deal in facts. We collaborate widely and generously and deliver solutions with real impact. 

CSIRO is committed to values-based leadership to inspire performance and unlock the potential of our people.

Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

How to apply

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

Applications close

8th June 2025, 11:00pm AEST