This position will work in the Animal Production Sciences (APS Branch of Agriculture Victoria Research (AVR) and undertake activities within the pasture and livestock research and innovation programs.

The appointee will help to deliver research activities that aim to explore how to precisely design, establish and manage multispecies swards for lamb production systems that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce the reliance on nitrogen fertiliser, are productive, nutritious, water and nutrient efficient, and persistent through climate challenges. This will be achieved through innovative research and scientific excellence, supported by technology adoption and technical efficiency.

The appointee will also contribute to other related livestock research projects and activities. The incumbent will contribute to designing and implementing research within the program, assist in reporting on the research both internally and to external stakeholders and assist with the preparation of scientific publications and other written reports. The successful applicant will work as part of a team of researchers and technical support staff and will have expertise in either pasture agronomy or ruminant animal nutrition.

You will enjoy flexible working arrangements and undertake a wide variety of work across the branch.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Essential: A appropriate degree in Agricultural Science, Science, or an equivalent science qualification.
• Desirable: A post-graduate qualification in a relevant science discipline such as agronomy, grazing ecology, or ruminant nutrition (candidates who have submitted their thesis are encouraged to apply).
• Demonstrated knowledge of the principles and operation of grazing-based ruminant production systems
• Demonstrated research experience, preferably in the implementation of pasture and/or ruminant experimentation and the subsequent interpretation of generated information.
• Demonstrated experience of effective participation in research project teams including experience of working with minimal supervision and displaying high levels of initiative.
• Well-developed communication skills, with proven ability to develop and maintain relationships with peers and key stakeholders, give technical direction to colleagues, and the ability to effectively present results of research to a range of audiences.
• A thorough understanding of the principles of Work Health and Safety (WH&S), the application of Animal Ethics standards to research projects, and in the supervision of staff and supervision of post-graduate students.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 3 years. The work location for this position is Hamilton SmartFarm.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

For further information please refer to the attached position description.

Applications close at midnight on Monday, 21 April 2025.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace

DEECA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees. Talk to us about our flexible options such as working some days from home, starting early or late, working part time, job sharing or accessing paid or unpaid leave.