Research Scientist

This position of Research Scientist will conduct field and glasshouse experiments to evaluate the resistance of varieties to a range of foliar diseases and develop disease management strategies. The position will work within a team of field crop scientists within the field crop pathology group at Horsham. The field crop pathology group is highly regarded nationally for the delivery of crop disease research to the grains industry.

Working with project collaborators, field and glasshouse experiments will be designed, seed lines managed, and field and glasshouse experiments assessed for disease severity. The position will prepare reports from experimental studies for project collaborators, scientific journals and funding agencies. Oral presentations to both scientific, agronomist and grower audiences will be required. The position will be responsible for the collation and national distribution of data from a range of field experiments. The successful applicant will enjoy flexible working arrangements and undertake a wide variety of work across the branch, involving a combination of laboratory, office, glasshouse and field work.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A degree in Agricultural Science, Science, Natural Resource Management, or an equivalent science qualification is required.
• A current Australian driver’s licence.
• Ability to design and manage research experiments of field crops in the field, laboratory and glasshouse.
• Ability to learn the methods required to develop disease epidemics in the field and glasshouse and to identify and assess diseases of field crops.
• Ability to collect, analyse and interpret scientific experiments.
• Possess excellent oral and written communication skills with ability to deliver information to a range of audiences, and to prepare scientific reports.
• Demonstrated ability to operate independently and cooperate in the pursuit of team goals, through planning, organising tasks and resources, to achieve high quality outcomes in a timely and effective manner.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 12 months. The work location for this position is Horsham with hybrid work arrangements available.

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.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the , including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers. 

Click the ‘Apply’ button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.

Applications close 11.59pm on Sunday, 23 August 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply.  We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace.  If you need support to participate, please contact ***************@deeca.vic.gov.au.

We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing.  For more information about our recruitment processes, visit applying for a role with us.