Research Officer Weed Biocontrol

NSW Planning, Industry & Environment • Orange, FL

2d • A$75,728 - A$145,422 • Onsite

About The Position

This research role will focus on testing the efficacy and safety of potential weed biocontrol agents to reduce the risk of priority weeds in NSW. The successful applicant will undertake research trials within the DPIRD quarantine facility based at Orange. They will engage with overseas researchers to identify potential agents and import these into NSW to undertake this research. They will analyse results from this research and prepare applications for release of suitable biocontrol agents. The applicant will also conduct pre- and post-release field assessments of weed biocontrol agents across NSW.

The role is part of a larger team of scientists and research staff working across multiple projects. You will lead individual projects and support other research projects, including assisting with maintaining insect cultures and a quarantine facility. This may involve some weekend work, field and laboratory tasks. Further, this role is based within Weeds Biosecurity, so the successful applicant will also be required to assist in biosecurity emergencies within NSW.

This role offers a unique opportunity to advance your career within the Research Scientist (RS) Classification pathway while remaining in your current position. Employees can choose to apply for entry into the Research Scientist classification, enabling them to formally align their work with a recognised research career structure within the public service. This pathway is ideal for professionals seeking to deepen their research focus while contributing to evidence-based decision making across the public service. To enter the Classification, an employee must have a PhD and completed 12 months of service in their current role. Undertaking scientific research must form the most significant part of their duties.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in science, Agricultural Science, Natural Resources or a related field with post-graduate experience in the same
• Demonstrable experience in developing innovative research solutions and track record of high-quality research output
• Current NSW Driver License and the ability and willingness to travel within NSW

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated experience in entomology or weed biocontrol focused research
• Strong capability in research design, data analysis and applied problem solving (including ecoclimatic modelling)
• Proven ability to collaborate with industry, government and research partners
• Experience communicating complex research clearly to diverse audiences
• A track record of contributing to funding submissions, reports and publications

Responsibilities

• Undertake research trials within the DPIRD quarantine facility.
• Engage with overseas researchers to identify potential agents and import them into NSW.
• Analyse results from research and prepare applications for release of suitable biocontrol agents.
• Conduct pre- and post-release field assessments of weed biocontrol agents across NSW.
• Lead individual projects and support other research projects.
• Assist with maintaining insect cultures and a quarantine facility.
• Assist in biosecurity emergencies within NSW.

Benefits

• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of agriculture and biosecurity.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and the option to work from regional locations.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level