Senior Research Scientist - Senior Genebank Curator
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Senior Research Scientist and Genebank Curator to join the Australian Grains Genebank (AGG) team. The AGG is the national center for grain crop genetic resources, with a mandate to acquire, conserve, and distribute these resources to underpin the development of more resilient and productive grain crop varieties. Funded by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and Agriculture Victoria Research, the AGG 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. The AGG utilizes a range of digital and genomic technologies to enhance curation efficiency, preserve biodiversity, and facilitate the informed selection of its plant genetic resources for research and breeding.
As Senior Genebank Curator, you will provide leadership in research and innovation to improve plant genetic resource conservation, management, and utilization outcomes. The role requires expertise across various grain crop species, strong project development and management skills, and experience with quality management systems and stakeholder engagement. Good interpersonal and written communication skills are essential. You should have a strong publication record, be passionate about science, and committed to delivering high-impact, innovative outcomes for industry. Applicants without genebank experience are encouraged to apply, as on-the-job training will be provided.
The position is located at Horsham (an innovative agricultural research smart farm) within the Plant Sciences branch of Agriculture Victoria Research, comprising over 70 scientists and technical staff specializing in plant genetic resources, plant genetic improvement, plant functional genomics, grain crop quality, and applied genomics and predictive plant breeding.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
* A PhD with at least 5 years of post-doctoral research in agriculture or related fields.
* Experience with scientific field-based research projects across agricultural grain crops, including experimental design, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
* Strong communication skills with the ability to produce high-quality reports and peer-reviewed publications.
* Stakeholder management skills to establish collaborations with industry and research institutions nationally and internationally.
* Proficiency with genebank inventory management systems, statistical analysis platforms, Microsoft Office, and willingness to adopt new technologies.
* Excellent organizational skills to manage resources, staff, and multiple tasks, while meeting deadlines and solving challenges.
* Highly desirable: Experience with ex-situ genebank seed systems, germplasm conservation, curation, and maintenance.
* Desirable: Experience with genetic and genomic analysis methods in cereals, oilseeds, or pulses.
This is an ongoing position. The work location is Horsham with hybrid work arrangements available.
Applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and a 2-page cover letter summarizing their skills and experience. Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria in the Position Description, including mandatory requirements.
Applications close at midnight on Wednesday, 21 May 2025.
Additional information:
Preferred candidates will undergo pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.
Applicants must have appropriate work rights for the employment period. Ongoing positions are only available to Australian/New Zealand citizens or Australian Permanent Residents.
A Diverse, Inclusive, and Flexible Workplace
DEECA encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and emphasizes fairness and consistency. We support flexible working arrangements such as remote work, flexible hours, part-time work, job sharing, and leave options.
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