Are you passionate about applying your knowledge of entomology and plant pests to drive meaningful research in horticulture? Do you want to play a vital role in tackling pest and disease challenges that affect horticultural crops, while promoting sustainable farming practices?
We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Research Scientist to join our Insects and Disease Team based in Manjimup or Bunbury. This exciting opportunity offers you the chance to work alongside experts in the field, collaborate with local growers, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions that support horticultural practices in the Southwest.
About the Role
As part of the Insects and Disease Team, you will work closely with growers to identify and address pest and disease issues in the broad range of horticultural crops grown in the region. You will help develop and implement scientific research projects tailored to the needs of growers and assist in plant biosecurity initiatives, including surveillance, monitoring, and control programs targeting plant pests and diseases of state and national significance.
Your research and expertise will contribute to optimising management options for key pests in WA, managing crop health during a changing climate, and leading the way towards more sustainable horticultural practices. The position is open to work across a broad spectrum of pest and disease related activities and is not specific to one aspect, with scope to develop new research projects.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct scientific research on plant pest and disease issues affecting horticultural crops, focusing on pest ecology, biology, and control measures.
- Develop and maintain strong working relationships with local growers, providing expert advice and support on pest and disease management.
- Collaborate with the plant biosecurity team to design and implement surveillance, monitoring, and risk analysis programs.
- Deliver research outcomes to industry stakeholders through workshops, publications, and other forms of dissemination.
- Communicate complex scientific information in a clear and accessible manner to diverse audiences, including growers, industry professionals, and government staff.
- Work independently and apply creative thinking to solve complex problems in pest management and crop health.
What We Are Looking For:
- Knowledge of entomology: A sound understanding of plant pest ecology, biology, diagnostic testing, taxonomy, and pest management practices.
- Practical experience: Some experience applying entomology principles in risk analysis, surveillance, investigations, or pest control activities.
- Communication skills: The ability to clearly communicate complex scientific information to a wide range of audiences, including researchers, industry stakeholders, and the public.
- Problem-solving abilities: A proactive, creative approach to research and pest management challenges.
- Independent work style: You should be self-motivated, capable of managing projects independently, while also working effectively in a team environment.
Why Join Us?
- Work at the forefront of sustainable horticulture: Help lead modern horticulture into more sustainable and climate-resilient practices.
- Impactful research: Your work will directly benefit local growers, shaping the future of horticultural pest management in the region.
- Collaborative environment: Work with experts in entomology, plant biosecurity, and agriculture to tackle real-world challenges.
If you are ready to make a difference in the field of horticulture and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural future, we want to hear from you!
How to Apply
Click the Apply button and attach the following to your application:
- A comprehensive CV that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of two (2) referees.
- A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages in length demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to this opportunity.
This position offers a unique opportunity to be part of an innovative team driving change in the agriculture and horticulture sector. Join us in helping to shape the future of pest and disease management!
For further information and special requirements for this role please see attached Job Description Form (JDF).
Equity and Diversity
At DPIRD we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and are an equal opportunity employer. We value and strongly encourage people with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, women and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply for positions within our agency.
Need further information?
For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Dr Julia Grassl, Senior Research Scientist, on 0405 170 150 during office hours.
If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056 in first instance. For further information about the recruitment process please contact our Employment team on (08) 6552 1943.
Employment Conditions and Additional Information
DPIRD is an Emergency Management Agency, and all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies.
Am I eligible to apply?
To be eligible for a permanent appointment to the Western Australian public sector you must be an Australian citizen or have permanent residency status in Australia. To be eligible for a fixed term or a casual appointment you must have documentary evidence of your entitlement to live and work in Australia for the period as part of your application.
You will 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 at applicant’s expense.
This process may be used to fill other same/similar fixed term, permanent, vacancies that arise in DPIRD at locations listed in this advert. In addition to this, should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position, the panel may select another suitable applicant from this selection process. Both of these options remain valid for a period of twelve (12) months from the approval of the initial recruitment decision.
The recruitment process may include online written assessments, psychometric, cognitive or other testing, job-related tasks, video or live stream interviews, documentation and reference checks or other assessment methodologies as required. We reserve the right to supplement the field of applicants via an executive search if required.
Please ensure you have plenty of time to submit your application to allow for unanticipated problems, as late and proforma applications will not be accepted. (Please note: Online lodgement is system generated. Any submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted)
