Casual Research Assistant - Processing of wildlife sounds to train deep learning recognition algorithms

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision are our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability.

About the Unit

The college of Engineering, Science and Environment brings together expertise in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to deliver life ready graduates and transformative solutions to our region and the world.

The School of Environmental and Life Sciences is committed to developing the research and teaching skills that encourage critical thinking and problem solving strategies.

This position is funded by a NSW Environmental Trust Project Grant to develop a field sensor with on-board Artificial Intelligence algorithms to detect and identify animal sounds in real-time.

Be challenged and imagine with us

The candidate will be tasked with processing wildlife acoustic recordings and preparing samples of tagged animal sounds acoustic. They will develop a citizen science interface using the platform Zooinverse to support, facilitate and promote public engagement related to acoustic tagging of animal sounds.

The successful candidate will work under the leadership of members of the University of Newcastle Conservation Science Research Group, including Dr Andrea Griffin, Dr Alex Callen and Prof Matt Hayward with a post-doctoral applicant working more independently than a PhD level applicant.

This casual position with approximately 670 hours over a two year period and will be located at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land).

How will you inspire us?

• Experience with processing of wildlife sounds
• Experience in working with citizen science project platforms
• Available to start immediately on the project

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do.

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

What we offer

This is HEW 6 and upward level casual position with a total of approximately 670 over a two year period depending on the salary level. A post-doctoral applicant will be expected to work more independently than a PhD level applicant.

Your next steps

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role.

Your application must include:

• Your resume (3 pages)
• A cover letter outlining your expertise, experience and motivation related to the project (1.5 pages)
• A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed below (.05 pages)

1. Experience with processing of wildlife sounds

2. Experience in working with citizen science project platforms

3. Available to start immediately on the project

Due to the nature of this role, the University may require the preferred candidate to undertake further pre-employment checks.

For specific position enquiries, please contact Dr. Andrea Griffin, Senior Lecturer in Conservation Psychology on (02) 4348 4393 or via email andrea.griffin@newcastle.edu.au

Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: 2nd October 2023 at 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

We provide opportunities for all people regardless of their background and experience, and this philosophy is reflected across all that we do.