Molecular Plant Pathology Technician

About Sugar Research Australia (SRA)
Sugar Research Australia invests in and manages a portfolio of research, development and adoption projects that drive productivity, profitability and sustainability for the Australian sugarcane industry.
We have highly dedicated and passionate people working on industry-critical projects to deliver tangible value outcomes and impact for our industry stakeholders.

About the role
The principal role of Technicians is to provide scientific and technical support to Researchers. Within broad guidelines about approach and milestones, a Technician undertakes a broad range of technical duties requiring scientific knowledge and professional judgement to solve complex problems. Technicians may also have responsibilities for the management of technical facilities and/or services.

Specifically, this role will:

• Undertake molecular methods for detection of sugarcane pests and diseases in sugarcane juice, plant and soil samples
• Collate data for all molecular work for analysis
• Process and score soil samples for Pachymetra spores
• Assist with the operation and maintenance of the Tully Soil Assay Laboratory to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality data to clients
• Prepare customer reports for the Tully Soil Assay
• Assist with the development of automated processes within the Tully Soils Assay Laboratory
• Participate in new research projects as required
• Ensure all research data are recorded correctly

Who are you?
This role will involve a mix of laboratory, glasshouse and field work. You will have a strong work ethic and enjoy working in the laboratory with a microscope one day and be happy to ‘get your hands dirty’ in hot and physical conditions in the field the next day.  You work well in a team, have excellent attention to detail, be able to focus and have knowledge of plant pathology techniques and methods.  It is essential that you have:

• Understanding of plant pathology and / or plant biology
• Experience in the use of molecular techniques including DNA extraction and qPCR
• Demonstrated level of initiative and judgement on technical and scientific approaches, and on the practical aspects of trials / investigations.
• Proven ability to conduct repetitive work within a laboratory setting and physical work in hot and humid environments.
• Ability to use microscopes
• Demonstrated ability to work within a team and to take the lead in specific, well-defined activities.
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Demonstrated effective communication skills appropriate to the scope of activities required, and proven autonomy and self-sufficiency if required to carry out unsupervised activities.
• Competency in computer skills and high attention to detail in respect to recording data and outcomes, with high competency and familiarity with Excel.

If you believe you match the above criteria and want to work as part of a team that explores new initiatives and seeks excellence in research practices, please send your application by clicking ‘Apply Now’ to submit your application, no later than Thursday 1 October 2026.
  
A full position description can be viewed by copying the following into your internet browser: https://sugarresearch.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Position-Description-Molecular-Plant-Pathology-Technician.pdf

You must have the right to work in Australia to apply for this role - applications from candidates who do not have the right to work in Australia will not be considered. There is no sponsorship opportunity for this role.

The successful applicant will be required to undertake a medical screening and a police check.