EOI Research Officer (Molecular Crop Pathology)

Ongoing employees affected by change management plans will be given priority consideration for at grade positions

• Temporary Full Time until 30 June 2029*
• Location: Tamworth Agricultural Institute Tamworth
• Salary from $75728 - $145442 pa. superannuation flex commensurate with qualifications skills and experience (Professional Officer Grade 1-4)
• This opportunity is open to DPIRD/LLS staff only

About the Role

As the Research Officer (Molecular Crop Pathology) you will play a vital role in safeguarding NSWs grain industries by developing and implementing advanced molecular diagnostic tools to detect and monitor priority crop pathogens. Your work will directly support state biosecurity surveillance programs and integrated disease management by delivering rapid reliable and scalable diagnostic solutions.
Youll collaborate across research teams and with industry partners to translate scientific innovation into real-world crop protection outcomeshelping keep our grain sector productive competitive and resilient.

You will be required to work onsite for this role.

Your Key Responsibilities Include

• Designing developing and validating molecular diagnostic tools (including qPCR LAMP and NGS technologies) to detect high-priority crop pathogens
• Supporting the integration of molecular diagnostics into surveillance biosecurity and emergency response programs for early detection and preparedness
• Collaborating with researchers industry and stakeholders to deliver impactful research and practical diagnostic solutions
• Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and contributing to industry reports and extension materials
• Ensuring work meets the standards and expectations of the Professional Officer Progression Criteria (14)

About You

You are a motivated molecular scientist who thrives in both independent and team-based research environments. You enjoy solving complex scientific problems and translating technology advancements into applied outcomes that benefit industry. You can balance multiple research priorities and communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences. Relationship-building is one of your strengths enabling you to work seamlessly with internal colleagues and external collaborators.

To succeed in this role you will have:

• Strong technical capabilities in molecular diagnostics
• Excellent organisation and project management skills
• The ability to work proactively and manage competing deadlines
• A collaborative mindset and confidence engaging with stakeholders

Essential Requirements

• Degree qualification relevant to the role (e.g. Agriculture Science Veterinary Science or related field)
• Post-graduate training in Molecular Plant Pathology Molecular Biology Biotechnology or a related discipline
• Demonstrated experience in molecular diagnostics and surveillance for plant pathogensideally in grain crops
• NSW Drivers Licence (or ability to obtain) and willingness to travel as required

For a confidential discussion about this vacancy please contact:

Guy McMullen onor

Click here to view the full Role Description - PO 1-4 Research Officer (Molecular Crop Pathology)

How to Apply

Please apply via our online portal and submit:

A CV (approx. 4 pages)

A cover letter (approx. 1 page) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

EOI Applications Close: Wednesday 17 December 2025 at 11:55pm AEDT

If you require adjustments in completing your application interviewing completing any pre-employment testing require information in an alternative format or otherwise participating in the recruitment process please let us know so we can assist. Send an email to or contact the hiring manager listed above for a confidential discussion.

What to Expect Next

After applying:

• Youllreceive a confirmation email
• Wellreview all applications once the ad closes
• If shortlisted you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
• Further assessments will follow ( skillstest psychometrictest)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates
• The preferred candidate for this role maybe requiredto undergo reference checks a national police check bankruptcy check healthassessmentand/or other assessments asrequired.

Additional Information

*This is an internal EOI opportunity.To be considered for an appointment for over 12 months or ongoing applicants must be ongoing at either an equivalentor higher grade than this advertised vacancy OR on a current and valid talent pool at this grade or higher. Alternatively if you do not meet the requirement for an ongoing appointment you may only be considered for a temporary appointment of up to 12 months.

This is a full time role based at Tamworth Agricultural Institute. You will be required to work onsite.

The salary offered to the successful candidate will be commensurate with qualifications skills and experience as outlined in the Crown Employees (Department of Regional NSW) Professional Officers Award and the Professional Officer Progression Criteria (1-4).

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