Principal Research Scientist/ Senior Research Scientist

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) lead the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment.

About the opportunity

There is currently one permanent position available for immediate filling.

This is an exciting opportunity to drive and shape the Department’s crop nutrition research across Western Australian cropping systems. Working with a high degree of autonomy, you will lead advanced scientific research into nutrient use efficiency, soil constraint amelioration and the mitigation and impact of climate change, developing innovative solutions to complex crop nutrition challenges.

Collaborating closely with industry and scientific partners, you will lead high-impact crop nutrition research and extension outcomes that underpin export-led growth while safeguarding West Australia’s soil and resource base. With a clear, long-term vision for crop nutrition in WA, you will lead and contribute to national crop nutrition projects ensuring that West Australian priorities are represented and that outcomes are translated into measurable on-farm impacts. In so doing you will strengthen national recognition of WA expertise while supporting the profitability and sustainability of the agri-food sector.

You will be responsible for project managing crop nutrition research projects, including leading research direction, coordinating project delivery, managing milestones and reporting requirements, publishing results in high-quality peer-reviewed journals, presenting information to stakeholders and overseeing project budgets to ensure compliance and financial accountability. A key responsibility of the role is to identify emerging gaps and opportunities in crop nutrition and proactively develop new, strategically aligned projects that attract investment and address industry needs.

We are looking for individuals with:

• Bachelor or postgraduate degree in Agricultural Science, Science or an approved equivalent.
• Demonstrated experience in scientific research and demonstrated knowledge of agri-food industry sustainable production systems with specialist knowledge of crop nutrition.

The panel will assess your skills, knowledge and experience to determine which classification level you may be considered suitable for. The assessment will take into consideration any relevant Qualification(s) and previous relevant experience.

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.

How to Apply

Click the Apply button and attach your application to Jobs WA.

Need further information?

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Sue Bestow, Manager Soil Science and Crop Nutrition on 0458 950 307 during office hours.