Research Scientist - Geochemistry

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• Lead and grow research on fluid-rock interactions related to subsurface reservoirs including R&D on fluid-rock interactions.
• Contribute to innovative energy research aligned with CSIRO’s strategies.
• Join CSIRO – Australia’s leading scientific research organisation!

CSIRO Energy is playing a key role in Australia’s energy transition. Work in the Energy Resources Program spans a wide range of geoscience and engineering applications from studies of Australia’s conventional energy resources, low emission fuels including hydrogen, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), long duration energy storage and direct use geothermal energy/groundwater cooling.

As a Research Scientist, you will play a key role in our research on fluid-rock interactions including concept origination, experimental design, interpretation of results and communication of outcomes in support of strategic and externally-funded projects. As part of the Geofluids Team you will also collaborate in research involving novel fluid inclusion and Raman spectroscopic analyses for sub-subsurface energy systems and secure storage of hydrogen and CO2.

If appointed at the senior level you will take a leading role in growing the quality and scope of fluid rock interactions research in the Energy Resources Program, working closely with industry and government partners in externally funded projects applying CSIRO’s expertise in Australia and globally.

• Growing experimental research capability for understanding and de-risking fluid-rock interactions in sedimentary basins used for CCUS, hydrogen storage and other low emissions technologies such as compressed air energy storage and direct use of heat and cooling from aquifers.
• Experimental design, interpretation of data and application of geochemical modelling to reveal and predict subsurface fluid-rock evolution and processes.
• Adding value to the Geofluids Team’s existing fluid inclusion techniques through participation in externally funded research projects.
• Planning and preparation of research proposals and carrying out research investigations, requiring originality, creativity and innovation. 
• Collaborating with government agencies, universities, and other research agencies worldwide, participating in science conferences and impact workshops, and publication of results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Working collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary, often regionally dispersed research team, to carry out tasks under limited direction in support of scientific research.
• Adhering to the spirit and practice of CSIRO’s Values, Health, Safety and Environment plans and policies, Diversity initiatives and Zero Harm goals.
• Other duties as directed.

For appointment at the senior level, you will need to demonstrate a track record of significant impacts from your research. As a Senior Research Scientist, you will be required to originate and develop opportunities for commercial research involving fluid rock interactions and lead multi-disciplinary projects through to delivery for external clients. You will contribute your domain expertise to strategy development in the Energy Resources Program and be able to provide high level advice to government and regulators regarding the potential impacts of fluid rock interactions on safe, long-term containment of fluids in the subsurface.

Location: Perth, Western Australia (Kensington site) preferred.
Salary: AU$110,038 - AU$ 148,014 per annum (pro-rata for part-time) plus up to 15.4% superannuation. Salary will be determined by the qualifications, skills and relevant experience of the successful candidate.
Tenure: Specified Term of 3 years.  Full-time.
Reference: 96912

Essential

Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed.

• A Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Geology, Geochemistry or related field.
• Relevant work experience of 5+ years in geoscience research and/or in industry.
• Demonstrated understanding of, and work history in, fluid-rock interactions and geochemical modelling relevant to processes in sedimentary basins (i.e., low temperature geochemistry).
• A demonstrated publication record: authorship on scientific papers in peer reviewed journals and reports, grant applications or inventorship on patent applications.
• Excellent communication skills in English for report writing and presentation to peers, clients and stakeholders.

Desirable

Understanding of, or practical experience in, fluid inclusion techniques such as micro-thermometry, fluorescence microscopy, or Raman spectroscopy, and their application to subsurface energy resource characterisation. Familiarity with laboratory techniques to characterise rocks and fluid interactions such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), core flooding, and computed tomography (CT).

For full details about the role please view the Position Description.

Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand citizens, Australian Permanent Residents, and Australian Temporary Residents currently residing in Australia with an existing valid visa and unrestricted work rights to cover the full duration of the specified term, and no requirement for visa sponsorship.

Appointment to this role is subject to the provision of a national police check and working with children check prior to commencement.

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Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

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.

We strongly encourage you to respond to each of the selection criteria in detail in your cover letter as one document, in addition to providing your CV.

Wednesday, 10th July 2024, 11:00pm AEST