Research Scientist (scib)

Supporting thriving, productive and sustainable communities, environments and industries, at DEECA we’re focused on creating a liveable, inclusive and sustainable Victoria with thriving natural environments where the community is at the centre of everything we do.

Research Scientist

Location: Horsham

Salary: $91,418 to $103,725 + super.

Position No: 020308

Please note: Due to Machinery of Government changes under Section 30 of the Public Administration Act (PAA), effective 1 January 2023, your employment will be with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action. Corporate Services, including payroll, will be provided by the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions while a process for the formal transfer of staff in impacted areas is implemented.

This Research Scientist – Soils position will undertake soil and agronomic research into improving the sustained productivity and profitability of dryland grain production systems in southern Australia through improved resource use efficiency. This research focuses specifically on developing new understanding of processes associated with soil physicochemical and nutrient constraints to crop productivity. 

Reporting to the Senior Research Scientist – Soil Sciences, the successful applicant will have a strong fundamental research background in soil science and crop agronomy. They will need to have a good understanding of modern dryland cropping systems. The incumbent will have demonstrated experience in the design and conduct of laboratory, controlled environment and field-based research and be able to manage, analyse and interpret diverse soil and crop data sets. They will be able to effectively communicate research to growers, advisers and other researchers and publish research in national conferences and peer reviewed journals. The successful applicant will work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team and be able to work collaboratively with a range of people, including farmers, technicians, students and scientists. The Research Scientist – Soils will be self-motivated, well organised, able to innovate, and to problem solve and have a passion to undertake world class R & D that improves the profitability and sustainability of the Australian grains industry. 

The key accountabilities of the role include, but are not limited to:

Design and manage a range of field experiments focusing on improving resource (nutrients and water) use efficiency in dryland cropping systems across a range of projects.

Manage records and data sets from research and undertake data processing, statistical analysis and interpretation of results.

Undertake simulation modelling of data sets collected from projects to develop new understanding of underlying biophysical processes.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

Mandatory Qualification
A degree in science, agriculture or environmental science.

Desired Experience/Qualifications

Post graduate qualifications (Preferably at PhD level) and appropriate research experience in soil science, agronomy, or relevant field is highly desirable.

Knowledge of modern dryland cropping systems

Knowledge of procedures for handling stable isotopes. 

This is a fixed term position available until 21 November 2023. The work location for this position is Horsham.  

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.

For further information please refer to the attached position description. 

Applications close at midnight on Monday, 3 April 2023

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check. Recruitment is subject to the prospective employee confirming their vaccination status as up to date (3 doses) or providing evidence that they are medically exempt. 

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 further information including the position description, key selection criteria and to apply visit