Research Assistant – Project Restore

About Sydney Institute of Marine Science

The Sydney Institute of Marine Science (SIMS) is a collaborative research institute bringing together researchers from the University of Sydney, University of Technology Sydney, UNSW, and Macquarie University to deliver world-class marine science with direct environmental impact.

About the Role

SIMS is looking for a Full-time Research Assistant to support the delivery of Project Restore, a multi-habitat marine restoration project working across seagrass, kelp and urbanised marine environments. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys fieldwork, ecological monitoring, environmental data, logistics, restoration delivery and working as part of a collaborative team.

Contract: 1 July 2026 to 31 December 2026 (6 months). Salary: $95,694 per annum, pro rata for 6 months. Location: Sydney, Australia.

The Research Assistant Will Support

• Restoration and habitat enhancement activities.
• Ecological monitoring, biodiversity surveys and connectivity monitoring.
• Field and laboratory sample collection, processing and curation.
• Environmental data management, QA/QC, analysis and reporting.
• Equipment preparation and maintenance.
• Coordination with SIMS staff, contractors, students, interns and volunteers.
• Community engagement and stakeholder activities.

What We Are Looking For

• Experience in marine, estuarine, coastal or aquatic fieldwork.
• Strong organisational skills and good data management practices.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Diving and boating experience are desirable but not essential.
• Applicants with SCUBA qualifications, boat handling experience, first aid/CPR/O2 certificates, ecological data skills or community engagement experience are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Please email your CV as well as a document outlining how you meet the role to recruitment@sims.org.au. More information: LinkedIn

Applications close: 24 June 2026.