This position will work in the Animal Production Sciences branch of Agriculture Victoria Research (AVR) and undertake activities within the methane and animal nutrition programs. The appointee will help to deliver research activities that aim to explore how to implement feeding strategies to reduce enteric methane emissions from graizng-based ruminant systems. 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 dairy 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 methane mitigation, ruminant animal nutrition or agronomy. The incumbent will also contribute to other dairy and red meat R&I activities as required.

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 ruminant nutrition, ruminant physiology or agronomy (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 methane and/or ruminant nutrition-based 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 2 Years. The work location for this position is Ellinbank 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.

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.