Genetics Science Lead – NZAEL

Location: Newstead (Hamilton) Work Type: Permanent, Full-time, 40 hours per week

Estimated Salary: $160,000 - $210,000NZD per annum

Lead the Future of Genetic Science in Dairy – from New Zealand to the World

DairyNZ’s Story - Progressing a positive future for New Zealand dairy farming Te whanake anamata angitu mō ngā pāmu kau o Aotearoa

Dairy matters; to farmers, to science, and to New Zealand. As one of the world’s most innovative dairy nations, we drive value for farmers, fuel regional communities, and invest in the future through science, sustainability, and smarter farming systems.

Help shape the future of New Zealand’s national dairy herd. Join us and be part of an organisation where your work has real-world impact, across Aotearoa and beyond.

About NZAEL (A DairyNZ Subsidiary)

New Zealand Animal Evaluation Limited (NZAEL) is a critical part of the dairy sector’s engine for genetic progress. We:

Operate DIGAD – the Dairy Industry Good Animal Database

Deliver independent, trusted genetic evaluations for all New Zealand dairy cattle

Steward the National Breeding Objective to ensure more efficient, productive, and sustainable cows

Collaborate globally to lead innovation in quantitative genetics and genomics

We’re proud to be science-led, farmer-focused, and internationally connected.

The Opportunity

We’re looking for an exceptional Genetics Science Lead to drive New Zealand’s national strategy for dairy cattle genetic improvement.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the scientific direction behind Aotearoa's animal evaluation system, delivering impact at farm level and influencing the future of sustainable dairy cattle improvement.

You'll lead a team of talented geneticists and play a high-profile role as a thought leader in both domestic and international forums. You’ll work alongside leading research institutions, industry partners, and farmers to ensure our genetic systems remain world-class, future-focused, and grounded in what matters most, real results for farmers.

About the Role

In this influential position, you will:

Lead the strategic direction and scientific delivery of NZAEL’s genetics function

Drive cutting-edge research in quantitative genetics

Guide enhancements to the national genetic evaluation system

Translate complex science into practical tools and insights that deliver on-farm impact

Partner with global experts to keep NZAEL at the forefront of genetics innovation

Represent DairyNZ as a credible voice on national and international stages

Grow and lead a high-performing team of genetics professionals

Influence policy, support knowledge transfer, and build strong relationships across the sector

About You

You’re a proven science leader who thrives at the intersection of research, industry, and practical application. You bring:

Essential:

PhD in genetics, animal breeding, or quantitative genetics

At least 7 years' experience leading applied genetics programmes

Strong technical expertise in statistical modelling and genetic evaluation

Proven leadership experience with the ability to coach, develop, and inspire teams

Ability to collaborate with scientists, farmers, and commercial partners alike

Excellent science communication and stakeholder engagement skills

Preferred:

Experience implementing genomic data in breeding or evaluation systems

Familiarity with the NZ dairy industry or similar pasture-based livestock systems

Strong programming capabilities (e.g. R, Julia, BOLT, Unix-based systems)

A track record of international collaboration or published research

Why Join DairyNZ | NZAEL?

Be at the forefront of global genetics innovation in a world-leading dairy system

Lead a science team making a real difference on-farm and across the sector.

How to Apply

Join us in making smarter breeding decisions the norm on every dairy farm in Aotearoa. Click here to view the full position description and apply online. Applications close: 4 November 2025, 11:55pm N​ZT