This role offers a unique opportunity to lead the cereal pathology research within the Field Crops Pathology team at Horsham. The Senior Research Scientist will drive research initiatives focused on crop disease management, aiming to enhance grower profitability and sustainability.
The team is highly regarded for its effective communication of scientific findings to growers, advisors, and the broader scientific community. Based at Horsham SmartFarm, the position provides access to a 600-hectare irrigated research farm, state-of-the-art glasshouse facilities, growth rooms, and laboratories. The team also operates a large-scale phenotyping program, screening genetic resistance across 24 crop-disease combinations annually.
The Senior Research Scientist will lead research into disease control for field crops, manage industry-funded projects, and oversee funding submissions, scientific reporting, and stakeholder communication. The role requires strong collaboration with national and international partners and includes supervision and mentoring of technical staff and postgraduate students.
The successful candidate will thrive in a collaborative environment, enjoy flexible working arrangements, and engage in diverse activities across laboratory, office, glasshouse, and field settings. Travel will be required for project meetings, presentations, and conferences.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
* A PhD in plant pathology, agricultural science or a related discipline, or equivalent research experience.
* Expertise in field crop disease research, including experimental design, and resistance screening.
* Current Driver License
This is a fixed term position available for a period of 2 years. The work location for this position is Horsham, Victoria 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.
How to Apply:
If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.
Applications close 11.59pm on Monday, 22nd December 2025.
All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History 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. For more information visit applying for a role with us.