• Utilise your data management/analysis skills together with assisting with legume population research

• Enjoy the diversity of working in the field and in the laboratory

• Work in two broad teams within CSIRO Agriculture and Food

The Position

The role of Research Projects staff in CSIRO is to collaborate in scientific activities with other research staff usually by assisting with detailed planning, undertaking or assisting with experimental and observational work, and in carrying out the more practical aspects of the work. This particular position involves work in two broad teams.

The “water and nutrients in crop production” team investigates crop management techniques to improve the water and nutrient use of major crops in Australia. The research goal is to deliver low cost and low risk soil management options to WA farmers. This includes investigation of the impact of soil constraints, such as water repellence, soil acidity, and soil compaction, on root growth and crop yield. This role requires a mix of field work at sites in the WA wheat belt, and laboratory investigations and measurements into the behaviour of water repellent soils. Data management and analysis skills will also be required.

The interactive CSIRO Plant Pathology and Crop Genomics group works on solutions to major yield-limiting problems facing the agricultural industry with a focus on legume genomics, necrotrophic fungal pathogens (those that kill host plants), biopesticides (biocontrol agents) and insect pests. Visit our website to learn more https://research.csiro.au/crop-disease. The appointee will assist with research investigating legume populations and plant-microbe/pest interactions at both phenotypic and molecular levels and assist with the day to day running of the laboratory.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Liaising with collaborators and team members to ensure proper agronomic and scientific management of field trials.
• Planning and coordinating field trips to trial sites for the research team. Occasional overnight absences will be required.
• Planning and assisting with soil and plant sample collection, and field and laboratory data and statistical analysis
• Working with legume mutant populations to help identify and further characterise interesting mutants through forward and reverse genetic approaches.
• Working in a team to examine biologicals-based solutions for the control of insect pests.

Location: Floreat, Perth, Western Australia
Salary: AU $61k to AU $78k plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Tenure: Specified term of 12 months
Reference: 58193

To be successful you will need:

• A Bachelors/Masters degree or equivalent experience in a relevant science field.
• A current 'A' class drivers licence.
• Demonstrated knowledge and practical skills in conducting field experiments involving factors affecting crop growth and yield, and in sampling and analysing soil and plant materials.
• Demonstrated experience with spreadsheets or other methods to accurately record and retrieve data efficiently.
• Ability to conduct field work at various sites that will require overnight stays.
• Demonstrated experience in basic molecular biology skills and in growing plants under controlled environmental conditions.

To view the full position description and selection criteria for this role please click here: Position description

We imagine. We collaborate. We innovate. At CSIRO, we do the extraordinary every day. We innovate for tomorrow and help improve today – for our customers, all Australians and the world. We do this by using science and technology to solve real issues. Diversity is the compass that navigates our innovation. We provide an inclusive workplace that respects, values and actively pursues the benefits of a diverse workforce. 
We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. Find out more here! Balance

How to Apply: Please load one document containing your CV and a brief cover letter which outlines your interest in the role and your motivations for applying (Maximum 2MB).  At the end of the online application process, you will also be required to respond to some screening questions. 

Applications Close:  27 August 2018.