Research Officer – Ecophysiology

Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: 854969
Location: 5064 - URRBRAE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

Help Shape the Future of Australia's Pulse Industry

We are seeking a motivated Research Officer - Ecophysiology to join our Crop Sciences team and contribute to innovative research that supports the sustainability of Australia's pulse industries.

This exciting role will play a key part in the delivery of the $6 million investment project, "Reducing Pod Drop in Lentil", aimed at improving harvestable crop yield for growers. Working within a collaborative research environment, you will contribute to cutting-edge pre-breeding research focused on crop ecophysiology, genetics and trait development.

About the Role

As the Research Officer - Ecophysiology, you will provide technical and operational support for field-based research investigating crop phenology, canopy development, yield formation, and pod drop traits. You will be involved in planning, conducting and monitoring field experiments, collecting and managing high-quality research data, and supporting the successful delivery of project milestones. Working closely with researchers, industry partners and collaborators, you will contribute to research outcomes that drive innovation and productivity improvements across the pulse industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, establishment and management of field experiments.
• Collect, record and manage high-quality research data relating to crop phenology, canopy development, yield formation and pod drop.
• Provide technical and operational support to ecophysiology research programs.
• Contribute to the timely delivery of project milestones and reporting requirements.
• Ensure research activities are conducted safely and in accordance with established protocols.
• Collaborate with internal research teams, industry stakeholders and external research partners.
• Support data integrity, quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Provide assistance across Crop Sciences research teams during peak periods to support successful project delivery.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• A qualification in agricultural science, plant science, agronomy, crop physiology, or a related discipline.
• Experience supporting field-based agricultural research.
• Strong data collection, record-keeping and analytical skills.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build productive working relationships with industry and research stakeholders.
• A commitment to workplace safety and research excellence.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to work on a high-profile research initiative that will directly benefit South Australian growers and contribute to the future development of lentil varieties with improved yield performance. You will be part of a collaborative research team committed to delivering practical outcomes for industry through science and innovation.

Apply now and help advance research that supports a productive and resilient agricultural future.

About Us

South Australia is internationally recognised for the quality of its agriculture, food, and wine. Our regions are the backbone of our state and the economic powerhouse that drives prosperity for all South Australians.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency working in partnership with our primary industries, regional stakeholders and across all levels of government to advance the prosperity and sustainability of South Australia’s primary industries and regional communities.

We are a passionate team of around 800 people working across metropolitan and regional South Australia to develop and protect our state’s regions and food, wine, aquaculture, fisheries, forestry, grains, livestock, dairy and horticulture industries.

It's no wonder there are so many exciting and diverse career opportunities in our organisation. If you’re ready to join us, apply now!

Benefits

At the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, we offer our employees challenging and rewarding work with opportunities for career progression, learning and development and flexibility.

Our Commitment to Diversity

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.  We embrace diversity and welcome applications from all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age.

Special Conditions

• Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
• Opportunity up to September 2030.
• Full Time opportunity, 37.5 hours per week.

Requirements

• Possession of a current driver’s licence and willingness to drive.
• Out of hours work and inter / intrastate travel may be required.
• Australian residency or current works permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
• You acknowledge your work, health and safety obligations and our expectations when applying for a role.
• The incumbent will be required to undertake emergency management training and must be willing to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies.

Qualifications

Essential

• PhD in Agricultural Science, Applied Biology, Environmental Science or related field (or equivalent experience).

Desirable

• (Experience working with pulse crops; proficiency in advanced statistical analysis, including R and/or Python; and a record of scientific publications commensurate with career stage.

Remuneration

PO2 - $94,769 min - $109,787 max per annum, plus superannuation

Enquiries

Victor Sadras

Principal Scientist
Phone: 0428100***
Email: *************@sa.gov.au

Website: www.pir.sa.gov.au

Application Instructions

All applications must be submitted online.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please see the attached applicant instructions, and outline your skills and experience in relation to the Professional and Technical Knowledge, Attention to Detail and Communication capabilities of the attached role description.

Applicants must include the contact information of at least 2 referees with 1 being your immediate supervisor/manager and a completed “Pre-Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector” form.

Applications close: 09/09/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Application Guidelines.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- Role Description - PO2 Research Officer - Ecophysiology.pdf

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.