Senior Research Scientist

About this role

This position leads multidisciplinary science collaborations for a $30M Strategic Partnership that is using digital and genomic innovation to transform the Australian Grains Genebank (AGG) from a traditional genebank into a bio-digital resource centre. The AGG is the national centre for grain crop genetic resources and has the mandate to acquire, conserve and distribute these resources to underpin the development of more resilient and productive grain crop varieties. The Strategic Partnership aims to unlock the genetic potential of plant genetic resources to accelerate cereal, oilseed and pulse crop improvement for the benefit of the Australian grains industry.

You will be supported by a multidisciplinary team of research scientists to lead a range of international collaborations that include using genotype information to link plant genetic resources to research and breeding knowledge, developing approaches to integrate data generated across different genotyping platforms, and establishing interoperable genebank data management, data resources and data infrastructure. You will also play key role in promoting the Partnership objectives both nationally and internationally, communicating Partnership outputs to a broad range of stakeholders, and effectively positioning the Partnership to enable it to contribute to the international genebank community and extract value from initiatives already underway. You will significantly contribute to science delivery and peer-reviewed journal publication, both individually and as part of a team.

You will be highly motivated and have strong interpersonal, organisational and communication skills, both verbal and written. You will be able to effectively communicate with a broad range of stakeholders, as well as build and maintain relationships. You will have demonstrated experience in population genetics, diversity analysis, quantitative genetics, plant molecular genetics and/or genomics, or a similar field, as well as extensive bioinformatics skills including working with command line tools, scripting and high throughput computing environments. You will work effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment, have a strong publication track record, be passionate about science and have a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, high-impact and innovative science outcomes for industry. Supervising higher degree research students is expected and encouraged. The position offers a unique opportunity to work with leading international researchers in genebank genomics and diversity analysis.

The position is located at AgriBio (a state-of-the-art biosciences research centre) within the Plant Sciences unit, which has 60+ scientists and technical staff who specialise in the fields of plant genetic resources, plant genetic improvement, plant functional genomics, and applied genomics and predictive breeding. You will work closely with the AGG Strategic Partnership Director and Program Leaders.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

Essential:

• A PhD in population genetics, diversity informatics, quantitative genetics, plant molecular genetics and/or genomics, or a similar field.

Desirable:

• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary research projects and collaborations, resulting in high quality and innovative science outcomes.
• Proven expertise in data analysis methods relevant to genebank genomics, diversity analysis, genotype imputation and the characterisation of plant genetic resources, along with extensive bioinformatics skills including working with command line tools, scripting, and high throughput computing environments.
• A strong peer-reviewed journal publication track record, demonstrating a significant contribution to science delivery both individually and as part of a team.
• Excellent interpersonal, organisational and verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with a broad range of stakeholders and build and maintain professional relationships.
• Experience in supervising and mentoring staff and higher degree research students, with a commitment to fostering the professional development of team members. 
• Experience in applying genetic and genomic analysis methods in cereals, oilseeds or pulses.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 3 Years. The work location for this position is AgriBio Bundoora with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements. 

Applications close at midnight on Thursday, 13 February 2025.  

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.  

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.  

A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace

DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.