Senior Research Scientist – Irrigated Crops
Department of Primary Industries & Regions SA – Loxton SA
We have an opportunity for a Senior Research Scientist – Irrigated Crops to be part of the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) within the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.
The Senior Research Scientist is part of the Irrigated Crops Program in the Crop Sciences Research Division within the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI).
The primary purpose of this role is to independently lead field-based research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing irrigated horticultural outcomes across the Riverland and other South Australian irrigation districts. This position supports SARDI's strategic priority of delivering innovative research that boosts the productivity and sustainability of South Australia's primary industries. Key responsibilities include designing, executing and reporting on field experiments focused on crops such as almonds, grapevines and summerfruit. Emphasis is placed on plant physiology, resource use efficiency, climate resilience and alternative orchard production systems.
The Senior Research Scientist will be based at SARDI's Loxton Research Centre and will focus on optimising perennial orchard production systems. This will involve investigating novel genotypes and orchard configurations to enhance production efficiency under increasingly challenging economic and climatic conditions. The role requires a strong understanding of plant physiology, particularly in relation to water and nutrient use efficiency. It also involves the application of agronomic field instruments, including dataloggers and associated soil, water and plant sensors. Proficiency in compiling and interpreting datasets for communication across diverse audiences is essential.
About Us
South Australia is internationally recognised for the quality of its agriculture, food, and wine. Our regions are the backbone of our state and the economic powerhouse that drives prosperity for all South Australians.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency working in partnership with our primary industries and regional stakeholders. The South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) is the research arm of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA). Our modern facilities, skilled staff, and rigorous principles make us a world science leader. Our research programs aim to increase the productivity and adaptability of the state's primary industries, promote bioscience enterprises, create opportunities for market growth and address barriers and provide applied solutions.
Our Commitment to Diversity
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We embrace diversity and welcome applications from all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age.
Special Conditions
Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
Requirements
Possession of a current driver's license and willingness to drive. Out of hours work and inter/intra state travel may be required. Australian residency or current work permit is required. You acknowledge your work, health and safety obligations and our expectations when applying for a role. The incumbent will be required to undertake emergency management training and must be willing to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies. Located at the Loxton Research Centre with occasional work off-site at other regional PIRSA locations and on private farms throughout SA agricultural regions. This position involves field work and exposure to dust and pollen.
Enquiries
Paul Petrie
Program Leader, Irrigated Crops
Phone: ***
Email: ***********@sa.gov.au
Website:
Application Instructions
All applications must be submitted online through iworkfor.sa.gov.au. Click "Apply" to be directed to the IWFSA website listing, alternatively search for vacancy number in the keyword search bar at iworkfor.sa.gov.au. If you're interested in this opportunity, please review the applicant guidelines and outline your skills and experience in relation to the following capabilities from the Role Description: 1. Professional and Technical Knowledge, 2. Teamwork and Team Building and 3. Planning and Organising. Applicants must include the contact information of at least 2 referees with 1 being your immediate supervisor/manager and a completed "Pre-Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector" form. Application Guidelines, Role Description and Pre-Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector can be found on the IWFSA job listing.
Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.
Opportunity up to June 2029
Full time opportunity, 37.5 hours per week
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