We are seeking a Diagnostician and Research Scientist to support the plant pathogen diagnostics team in Crop Health Services (CHS). Crop Health Services is a state-based diagnostic laboratory providing high quality plant diagnostics to both government and industry clients, to protect Victoria against plant diseases and underpin biosecurity, productivity and sustainability of Victorian and Australia agricultural industries. Crop Health Services is a fast-paced laboratory that delivers fee-for-services plant health diagnostics. It is also responsible for all Victorian plant biosecurity samples and is the only Victorian laboratory with the authority to diagnose exotic pathogens in the state.

The position of Diagnostician and Research Scientist is located within the Plant Pathology team in Microbial Sciences, Pests and Diseases Unit of Agriculture Victoria Research and reports directly to the Senior Diagnostician and Research Scientist. The position will be responsible for diagnosing plant pathogens on samples submitted to Crop Health Services for disease identification, with an emphasis on mycology. The incumbent will enjoy a mix of laboratory work, reporting diagnostic results and stakeholder engagement. The position requires a range of traditional and molecular plant mycology diagnostic capabilities, or the demonstrated ability to learn these skills quickly. It also requires excellent communication skills and a willingness to engage with clients. The incumbent will work collaboratively with other diagnosticians in other disciplines and technical staff to undertake day to day plant disease diagnoses and with researchers to implement new diagnostic technologies. The incumbent will be required to gain an understanding in other disciplines including nematology, bacteriology, virology or entomology to assist across the CHS laboratory

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• A science degree with a focus on plant mycology or related field.
• A broad knowledge of agricultural crops, especially horticulture, and their cultural practices and plant health problems
• Knowledge in diagnosing plant diseases using a broad range of diagnostic methodology
• Understanding of operating with standard operating procedures or operating under a quality management system, such as accredited by NATA, biosecurity/ quarantine material (i.e. OGTR or Department of Agriculture).
• Knowledge in laboratory safety and standard health and safety protocols.

This is a fixed term position available for a period of 12 Months. The work location for this position is AgriBio, 5 Ring Road Bundoora.

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 Wednesday, 16 July 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.