The position:

CSIRO Land and Water is seeking a high-achieving scientist in the area of contaminant hydrogeology focused on multiphase processes in groundwater environments. The successful candidate will conduct a program of research to develop new knowledge and outcomes on the dissolution of petroleum fuel components into groundwater environments. The research will be undertaken as part of an active, multidisciplinary research team based in Perth, Western Australia, and partnering with researchers in India.

You will play a hands-on role in the design, set up, and monitoring of detailed one and three dimensional porous media laboratory experiments. These experiments will aim to determine dissolution characteristics of complex non-aqueous phase liquids (NAPLs) and fate processes in order to compare to improved theory. Your high-level data interpretation skills will be highly regarded.

The role will require overseas travel to liaise with our Indian counterparts, as well as to present research outcomes at conferences, and extend research networks.

The successful candidate will:

• work within an active multidisciplinary research team to successfully deliver science and industry outcomes;
• design, plan and implement research to characterise petroleum dissolution and fate processes in column scale and sand box scale experiments;
• develop innovative concepts, theories, tools and techniques;
• publish findings in high-impact journals and ensure uptake of research outcomes;
• help build CSIRO's linkages and reputation.

Location: Floreat (Perth) Western Australia
Salary: AUD86K - AUD93K plus up to 15.4% Superannuation (Pension Fund)
Tenure: 3 year term
Ref. No.: WA01420

To be considered you will have a PhD, or a Masters degree with 3 years or more relevant research experience, in the area of soil science, contaminant hydrogeology, environmental engineering or equivalent areas.

You will also have:

• an understanding of multiphase contaminant processes in groundwater environments, as evidenced by research initiative in this area and a track record of science excellence through publication of research outcomes;
• experience in designing and conducting laboratory experiments related to flow and mass transport in porous materials;
• the ability to collect, collate and quantitatively analyse experimental data;
• experience and/or appreciation of field sampling of groundwater and soil, along with knowledge of the role of geochemical and microbial processes as they influence the fate of organic compounds in groundwater and soil environments.

About CSIRO:

Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), is a powerhouse of ideas, technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments, industries, business and communities.