The Position

• Carry out immovative, impactful research to assist Australian growers.
• Contribute to improvements in yields and profitability through new genetics and methodologies.
• Join CSIRO's internationally recognised Agriculture & Food business unit in Canberra today!

The Position
We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated and experienced Wheat Scientist to undertake analysis of genetic and breeding data toward development and implementing of tools for use in commercial breeding of improved water-productivity.

Rain-fed crops are regularly limited by droughts that reduce yields and quality and thereby reducing profitability for Australian growers. CSIRO Agriculture and Food is globally recognised in its innovation to develop and deliver new genetics and methodologies aimed at reducing the negative impact of drought in wheat crops.

This role requires travel to conduct experiments in the field. The successful applicants must be available to travel for periods of up to four nights. A drivers licence and experience driving manual cars is also desirable. Given that there is field work involved in the role a medical will also be required.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing and delivering of efficient experimental designs, and their statistical analysis in assessing genotypic variation in water productivity traits in wheat.
• Development of improved understanding of trait associations and trait value in assessment and prioritising across multiple water-productivity traits in delivering to commercial wheat breeders.
• Develop efficient selection methods for targeting improved water productivity in elite wheat germplasm.
• Direct the phenotyping and selection of key wheat water productivity traits for release to commercial wheat breeding programs.
• Work closely in a multi-disciplinary team of breeders, statisticians, geneticists, and technical support in timely delivery of germplasm to breeders.

Location: Black Mountain, Canberra, ACT
Salary: $95K - $103K plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Tenure: Specified Term, 2 years
Reference: 33269

To be successful you will need:

• A doctorate or equivalent research experience in a relevant discipline area, such as statistics, crop breeding and/or crop physiology
• Working knowledge in the analysis of complex datasets using established genetic and/or physiological models.
• Understanding and knowledge of crop growth and development of field experiments.
• The ability to identify traits for the development of germplasm for commercial wheat breeders.
• Knowledge and experience in field-based phenotyping to deliver adapted, agronomically suited wheat breeding lines.

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

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. Find out more here! Balance

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.

How to Apply: Please apply for this position online at https://jobs.csiro.au/ and enter requisition number 33269. You will be required to upload one document only containing both your CV/Resume and cover letter, outlining your motivation and suitability for the role.

Applications Close: 11:59pm AEST, Tuesday 2nd of January 2018