Vacancies

Data Scientist (Australian Plant Phenomics Network - APPN)

• Work with cutting-edge technology in a nationally significant research initiative
• Collaborate with leading scientists and researchers to develop sustainable solutions
• Join a strategic national network of over 100 professionals across leading institutions

The role

• Full Time, Fixed Term (until June 2028)
• Level 7 - $101,421 to $110,819 p.a. (plus 17% superannuation)
• Wagga Wagga

Are you into data, tech, and making a real difference in how we grow food? Charles Sturt University is on the lookout for a Data Scientist to join a national research team working on smarter, more sustainable farming solutions. In this hands on role, you will help turn data collected from drones, sensors, and cameras into practical insights using AI, machine learning, and data analytics. You’ll work with high-resolution images, LiDAR, and other advanced technologies to support research that helps farmers grow healthier crops, reduce waste, and make better decisions for the environment.

At Charles Sturt University, you’ll be part of a dynamic institution that’s shaping the future of agriculture through cutting edge research and national collaboration. Our AgriPark facility in Wagga Wagga hosts a dedicated node of the Australian Plant Phenomics Network (APPN), a prestigious national initiative driving advancements in plant science and sustainable farming. Here you will be connected to 100+ staff across nine nationally distributed research nodes.

About you

You are a technically proficient and collaborative professional with:

• Proficiency in Python, R, machine learning, and image processing
• Experienced with spatial data, GIS tools, and sensor datasets (e.g. LiDAR, hyperspectral)
• Strong collaborator with excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Proven ability to develop custom analytical tools and models
• Committed to FAIR data practices, research integrity, and continuous improvement

As part of this recruitment, a pre-employment functional screening is required.

About us

We are a university of the land and people of our regions. True to the character of regional Australia we have gumption, we have soul and we collaborate with others. We develop holistic, far-sighted people who help their communities grow and flourish.

The Wiradjuri phrase yindyamarra winhanganha means the wisdom of respectfully knowing how to live well in a world worth living in. This phrase represents who we are at Charles Sturt University – our ethos. It comes from traditional Indigenous Australian knowledge, but it also speaks to the mission of universities – to develop and spread wisdom to make the world a better place.

Harnessing technology, we thrive as a distributed yet connected community, welcoming and engaging with people across Australia and the world.

Learn more about AgriPark here.

Visit our website to learn about our great range of employee benefits.

Charles Sturt University is committed to building a diverse workforce as shown through our Athena Swan Bronze Award, our Australian Workplace Equality Index Bronze Award and our membership of a range of diversity focused organisations including Diversity Council Australia and Pride in Diversity. We encourage applications from First Nations people, carers, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, neurodivergent people, and people of all age groups, genders and sexualities for all roles.

To apply

Click the Apply button and complete your application online and upload your CV. You will be expected to answer the following three (3) targeted questions;

1. Describe how you have applied data science, statistical modelling and machine learning to complex data sets?
2. How have you used GIS, remote sensing data or computer vision techniques to support research or real world problems?
3. Tell us about your experience using deep learning frameworks or generative AI in agricultural contexts.

If you experience difficulties applying online or for further information on completing the application process please visit our how to apply page or contact us.

This position is open to Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents; or applicants who hold a current valid work visa commensurate with this position.

Further information

Additional information is available in the position description or by contacting:

Recruitment specific enquiries: Rebecca Dwyer | Talent Acquisition Consultant | redwyer@csu.edu.au

Role specific enquiries: Nelson West | APPN Node Manager | nwest@csu.edu.au

Closing Date: 11pm, 30 September 2025

Advertised: 16 Sep 2025 09:00 AM - AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 30 Sep 2025 11:00 PM - AUS Eastern Standard Time