The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) lead the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment. 

To learn more about our department, our team and the work we do, please visit our website. 

About the opportunity

We currently have one (1) fixed-term full-time opportunity available for a Research Scientist to join DPIRD’s Broadacre Systems Directorate until 30 June 2029 with the possibility of extension or permanency.

As the successful candidate, you will support scientific research and investigation activities under the guidance of senior staff to contribute to the growth and sustainability of the agri-food industry.

Reporting to the Senior Research Scientist, this role requires demonstrated experience in conducting research using plant omics, gene manipulation and plant tissue culture techniques in grain crops, together with the ability to apply these approaches to experimental research, data analysis and interpretation, and the communication of research .

It is also important to be aware that DPIRD is an emergency management department and so on occasion, all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies. 

The position is currently available for immediate filling and includes the possibility of extension or permanency in the future. This process may also be used to fill other same or similar fixed term or permanent vacancies that arise in DPIRD (within the locations listed in this advert) over the next 12 months. 

Diversity and inclusion

We value diversity and understand diverse workplaces are more effective and innovative so we encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, women, youth, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. As our department is an equal opportunity employer, supported by the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA), preference may be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people of diverse sexualities and youth.

About the team and benefits

In this role, you will design, conduct, interpret, and promote research work in a team environment. The work undertaken will contribute to the development of improved doubled haploid technologies for Australian crop breeding and research. You will have the opportunity to engage with research collaborators, breeders, and other industry stakeholders by providing expertise in crop genetics and breeding technologies to improve crop yield, quality, and environmental adaptation.

We are genuinely committed to developing and supporting our workforce to be their best by creating a positive work environment, supporting work/life balance and encouraging our employees to learn on the job and build their skills.

Assessment criteria and eligibility

We are looking for individuals with:    

• Demonstrated experience in gene manipulation and tissue culture in cereal crops.
• Good analytical and problem-solving capability to conduct scientific research and high-level communication skills to publish and promote research results.
• Knowledge and experience of plant omics, bioinformatics and flow cytometry.
• Demonstrated experience in working well within a team environment.
• Flexibility in travelling to other work locations or regional sites for project work and field trials.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge and experience in crop genetics, biotechnology and omics research. To be eligible for appointment, we will also require you to submit copies of your qualifications.

For further information and requirements for this position, please see the attached Job Description Form (JDF). 

How to apply 

If you are interested in this opportunity, make sure you have read through all the attached information, click the ‘Apply’ button and upload the following:  

• A comprehensive CV that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of your referees.  
• A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages demonstrating how your skills, knowledge, experience and attributes relate to this opportunity and the values of DPIRD.
• Copies of any relevant documents to demonstrate you are eligible for appointment.

The successful candidate will also be required to provide a current National Police Certificate (police clearance) before commencing employment. If not currently held, this must be acquired prior to appointment, which will be at your expense. You are also required to have a current and valid Western Australian "C" class (car) drivers’ license or equivalent (if not currently held must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense).

Please be aware that late applications will not be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure it has been submitted prior to the closing date and time. If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056.

Further information and support

To find out more about the opportunity, please contact Dr Yong Han on 0490 220 338 during office hours or send an email to yong.han@dpird.wa.gov.au.

We are planning to conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates in October 2026. If required, we may also use other assessment methods to gather evidence in relation to the suitability requirements of the position and supplement the field of applications by conducting a candidate search.

If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in this assessment process, or other questions about the recruitment process, please contact our Talent team via recruitment@dpird.wa.gov.au or (08) 6552 1943.

Privacy and your personal information 

DPIRD handles and releases information in accordance with relevant privacy and information access laws including the Freedom of Information Act 1992 (FOI) and the Privacy and Responsible Information Sharing Act 2024  (WA) (PRIS). Further information is available via our Privacy Statement.