CQ
Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture
full-time•Bundaberg•A$162k - A$210k
About this role
About this Opportunity
- Fixed-Term (5 years), Full-Time
- Office of the Vice-President – Research
- CQUniversity Bundaberg* (Relocation support available)
- Total Remuneration $192,505 to $210,526 pa (including salary of $162,670 to $177,898 plus 17% superannuation and leave loading)
Join an organisation with an unbreakable belief that quality education, training and research should be available to everyone – regardless of background, location or life circumstances.
Working at CQUniversity
CQUniversity’s School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences is home to the Institute for Future Farming Systems, a national leader in applied research supporting the productivity and sustainability of Australia’s horticultural industries. With a strong presence across regional Queensland, the Institute works with growers, industry partners and global collaborators to deliver practical, high‑impact solutions in farming systems, crop production and AgTech innovation. Based in Bundaberg, one of Australia’s premier horticultural regions - the team is uniquely positioned to work at the intersection of science, technology and industry needs.
We are seeking a Principal Research Fellow – Horticulture to lead a high‑performing research portfolio within this dynamic environment. In this role, you will provide strategic and operational leadership, strengthen industry partnerships, drive impactful research across horticultural science and technology, and secure competitive funding. You will oversee major projects, mentor research staff and students, and help shape the future direction of CQUniversity’s horticulture research. This opportunity is ideal for a research leader passionate about delivering outcomes that benefit industry, communities and the broader agricultural sector.
Relocating to Bundaberg
Located in one of Australia’s premier horticultural and agricultural regions, Bundaberg is known for its relaxed pace of life, affordable living, and strong sense of community. Bundaberg offers an inviting mix of coastal lifestyle, natural beauty and regional charm. New residents can enjoy a vibrant mix of outdoor experiences, from pristine beaches and reef adventures to fresh local produce, nature‑based attractions and a welcoming regional culture that showcases the very best of the Bundaberg Region.
As a growing regional centre, Bundaberg provides excellent amenities, schools, health services and a supportive local community. Whether you’re seeking a coastal lifestyle, more space for your family, or a welcoming regional city with a strong agricultural heartbeat, Bundaberg offers an exceptional place to live, work and connect.
Be Rewarded
- 17% superannuation (with the choice to join an award-winning superfund)
- 6 weeks annual leave (incl. Christmas and New Year closure)
- 10 days personal/sick leave, plus 5 days carer’s leave
- 7.25 hours engaged service leave
- Fantastic professional and career development opportunities
- Up to 26 weeks (six months) paid parental leave
- Access to an Employee Assistance Program and Fitness Passport
Position Requirements
- Doctoral qualification (PhD or equivalent) with substantial experience in a relevant horticultural, agricultural, or related research discipline.
- Strong research leadership record, including securing competitive external funding, leading major research programs, and producing high‑quality publications (with Scopus H‑index and journal impact factors).
- Demonstrated excellence in building and maintaining industry, community, and stakeholder partnerships, with the ability to translate research into real‑world impact.
- Proven capability in supervising and mentoring research staff and higher-degree research students, contributing to capability development across the team.
- Experience contributing to curriculum or research training development and supporting high‑quality academic standards through effective communication and collaboration.
Position Description
For further information about this position, please refer to the Position Description.
Apply today for a career that changes lives
Applications Close: 11:59pm, Thursday, 26 February 2026
Job Requisition ID: 6910
Contact Details:
Amy Cosby
0405824112
When submitting your application, please include: Your Current CV or Resume, and a 1-2 page Cover Letter highlighting your relevant skills, experience and suitability for the position. Please note, applicants for the position must have full time work rights.
Work Rights: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Candidates must hold the full rights to work in Australia to be considered for this appointment.
*A condition of employment for this role is relocation to the Bundaberg region (relocation support available). Please confirm your willingness to relocate in your application.
CQUniversity is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes diversity in the workplace. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and CQUniversity’s domestic and international student graduates with post-study work rights are encouraged to apply.
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What you'll do
- Lead a high-performing research portfolio in horticulture, providing strategic and operational leadership. Oversee major projects, mentor research staff and students, and strengthen industry partnerships.
About Central Queensland University
CQUniversity is Australia’s largest regional university and is one of the nation’s most engaged and accessible universities, offering hundreds of education and training options from short courses, certificates and diplomas to undergraduate, postgraduate and research higher degrees.
Established in Central Queensland, CQUniversity operates in more than 20 locations throughout many of Australia’s major cities and regional centres. We see CQUniversity students benefiting from the practical and industry-aligned courses, positive graduate outcomes and quality support services. CQUniversity’s personalised learning support, collaborative partnerships and award-winning teaching staff provide pathways for people from all walks of life, with a range of different learning options for students to succeed.
Local and International students study or train on-campus at locations including Brisbane, Bundaberg, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Melbourne, Rockhampton, Sydney and Townsville. A leading provider of distance education, CQUniversity also operates dedicated Study Centres and Partner Study Hubs for distance students to access facilities and support.
CQUniversity graduates have one of the highest employment rates and starting salaries in the country (The Good Universities Guide 2022), so you know you are not just receiving a quality education, but the next step in your career.
Welcome to the CQUniversity's global alumni community!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does Central Queensland University pay for a Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture?
Central Queensland University offers a competitive compensation package for the Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture role. The salary range is AUD 163k - 211k per year. Apply through Clera to learn more about the full compensation details.
What does a Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture do at Central Queensland University?
As a Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture at Central Queensland University, you will: lead a high-performing research portfolio in horticulture, providing strategic and operational leadership. Oversee major projects, mentor research staff and students, and strengthen industry partnerships..
Is the Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture position at Central Queensland University remote?
The Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture position at Central Queensland University is based in Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia. Contact the company through Clera for specific work arrangement details.
How do I apply for the Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture position at Central Queensland University?
You can apply for the Principal Research Fellow - Horticulture position at Central Queensland Universitydirectly through Clera. Click the "Apply Now" button above to start your application. Clera's AI-powered platform will help match your profile with this opportunity and guide you through the application process.