This position supports a $30M Strategic Partnership that is using digital and genomic innovation to transform the Australian Grains Genebank (AGG) from a traditional seedbank into a bio-digital resource centre. As the national centre for grain crop genetic resources, the AGG underpins the development of resilient and productive crop varieties. The Partnership aims to unlock the genetic potential of these resources to accelerate cereal, oilseed and pulse crop improvement for the benefit of the Australian grains industry.

You will work within a multidisciplinary team of research scientists, data specialists and software developers to advance the Partnership objectives. You will maintain and develop bioinformatic workflows for a diverse range of genomic analyses. You will contribute to international collaborations that focus on linking genotype data with research and breeding knowledge, integrating outputs generated across different genotyping platforms, and building interoperable genebank data management, data resources and data infrastructure. You will contribute to scientific publication and play a key role in communicating project outcomes to a wide range of stakeholders.

You will be highly motivated and collaborative, with strong bioinformatics expertise. You will have experience with command line tools, scripting and high throughput/cloud computing, along with proficiency in R and at least one other programming language. Experience with workflow DSLs (e.g. Netflow and Snakemake), toolkits (e.g. GATK and Samtools) and version control systems (e.g. Git) is essential. You will have a publication track record, be passionate about science and have a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, high-impact industry-relevant outcomes.

The position offers a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking team, working with leading international researchers in genebank genomics and diversity analysis. The position is based at AgriBio - a state-of-the-art biosciences research centre - within the Plant Sciences branch, which includes 65+ scientists and technical staff specialising in plant genetic resources, crop genetic improvement, genomics and bioinformatics.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A PhD in a bioinformatics or a genomics field with a strong bioinformatics component.
• Demonstrated expertise in bioinformatics including workflow development, scripting and high throughput/cloud computing environments.
• Strong programming skills in R and at least one additional language (e.g. Bash, Python, Java and Perl), with capacity to learn new languages where required, and experience using code version management systems such as Git.
• Experience writing and maintaining bioinformatic workflow using DSLs such as Nextflow and Snakehead, and toolkits such as GATK, Picard and Samtools.
• A peer-reviewed publication track record, demonstrating a significant contribution to science delivery both individually and as part of a team.
• Strong interpersonal, organisational and communication skills, with ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Desirable: Experience with data analysis methods relevant to genebank genomics such as diversity analysis, genotype imputation and the characterisation of plant genetic resources.

This isa fixed term position available for a period of 2 Years. The work location for this position is AgriBio Bundoora with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

Applications close at midnight on Thursday, 19 June 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.