Research Scientist

Research Scientist (AI and Marine System Modelling) Australian Institute of Marine Science – Townsville QLD The Australian Institute of Marine Science is Australia’s tropical marine research agency. We are a trusted advisor, a partner and employer of choice, and we value integrity, innovation, collaboration and respect. AIMS’ research of Australia’s tropical marine ecosystems guides their effective environmental management and contributes to our understanding of similar ecosystems around the world. Our research seeks to deliver practical benefit to all Australians and supports the sustainable use of our tropical marine estate. Governments, reef managers, industry and the wider community look to our high-quality, long-term research for informed decisions about our iconic Great Barrier Reef, North-West Shelf, and Arafura and Timor Seas. AIMS expert teams at our locations in Townsville, Darwin and Perth have access to world-class infrastructure, unique datasets, cutting‑edge laboratories, and a fleet of modern research vessels. About this exciting opportunity Working within the Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence (DAAI) Team, you will lead the integration of advanced AI paradigms, including generative AI, Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) and advanced deep networks (such as Physics‑Informed Neural Networks – PINN), into scientific modelling and forecasting frameworks. As the Research Scientist (AI and Marine System Modelling) your focus will be on building dynamic AI models capable of exploring “what‑if” scenarios and recommending optimal management strategies for marine conservation. This position is pivotal in transforming raw environmental data into actionable scientific insights and will drive innovation in marine ecosystem forecasting and management by pioneering the application of cutting‑edge AI techniques to real‑world ecological challenges. About you As a Research Scientist you will hold a PhD or equivalent research experience in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Data Science, Applied Mathematics, or a highly quantitative Marine Science discipline coupled with demonstrated in‑depth knowledge and hands‑on experience in developing and applying a variety of modern AI/ML techniques to predict and forecast ecological and biological change. You will demonstrate your ability to contribute to research outcomes through a mix of peer‑reviewed publications, technical reports, conference presentations, or impactful project deliveries along with effectively translating complex technical concepts and fostering collaboration with diverse domain experts. Our ideal applicant will bring practical experience with cloud computing platforms and adherence to software development best practices for scalable and reproducible research along with solid understanding of marine ecological, biological, or oceanographic principles that enables effective problem formulation and nuanced interpretation of analytical results. Apply now In line with our Enterprise Agreement, the successful candidate will be rewarded with: AIMS AOF Level 6 salary ($141,261 to $159,178 per annum) plus 15.4% superannuation Located in Townsville (Qld) or Canberra (ACT) 9‑day fortnight, enjoy a long weekend each fortnight Flexible Work Arrangements considered including hybrid working (where suitable) Generous and supportive leave entitlements Access to Commuter car fleet arrangements to travel to site (in Townsville only) Salary Sacrifice opportunities Access to Fitness Passport program, offering discounted membership to selected gyms Employee Assistance Program Relocation assistance available Discover more about Working at AIMS | AIMS. Please note: Non‑Australian Citizens must hold an appropriate Visa with working entitlements that allows paid employment with AIMS from commencement and for the term of the appointment, depending on the relevant Department of Home Affairs current policies. AIMS may be able to consider sponsorship for international applicants for this role, however, please note that visa processing times can impact the ability for AIMS to consider sponsorship for vacancies. AIMS must meet the requirements of the Department of Home Affairs immigration policies and processes, including the necessity to test the local labour market for suitable applicants. This includes international talent pool members who are Australian visa holders who have relevant working rights. Next Step Further information about this exciting and challenging opportunity is outlined in the Candidate Information Pack which is available to download from our website If, after reviewing the position description and selection criteria included in the Candidate Information Pack, you believe that your qualifications, experience and professional capabilities will enable you to successfully the deliver the position responsibilities, we encourage you to make an application via our website. Submitting your application: Please ensure that you have your completed documents (selection criteria responses, resume and cover letter) ready to attach to your online application form via our e‑recruitment system which can be accessed via our website Position enquiries are to be directed to Kamran Shafi, Manager Data Analytics & AI at *******@aims.gov.au.Applications must be made through our website per above. AIMS acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia's first scientists. We pay our deepest respects to Elders past, present and future, and the custodians of the land and sea Country on which we work. Be careful - Don’t provide your bank or credit card details when applying for jobs. Don't transfer any money or complete suspicious online surveys. If you see something suspicious, report this job ad. #J-18808-Ljbffr