Research Scientist and Group Leader - Weed Management Systems - [Archived Advertisement]

The Opportunity

• Deliver advanced weed management solutions that support science impact areas
• Build a portfolio of high impact projects and drive collaborative partnerships
• Collaborative environment with incredible flexibility and work conditions

CSIRO's Health & Biosecurity Business (H&B) Unit addresses the complexity and interdependencies of human, animal and environmental health and biosecurity challenges across Australia and the world. H&B's portfolio of work drives impact through three key impact areas: Increasing Australia’s preparedness and responsiveness to health and biosecurity threats; Accelerating the technologically and digitally driven transformation of Australia’s healthcare and biosecurity systems; and Improving the health and wellbeing of all Australians.

The Biosecurity Program in CSIRO H&B works to mobilise science and technology to support preparedness and response to biosecurity risks to agriculture and the environment. The Weed Management Systems group within the Program conducts research that spans biology, ecology, genomics and management of weeds of agricultural and environmental significance.

The Principal Research Scientist (Plant Genomics) and Group Leader (Weed Management Systems) will work with teams in the group to creatively drive a new scientific research agenda, with a particular focus on delivering novel weed management solutions to support the impact areas of H&B. The focal area of interest/growth for the group into the future is the development of advanced genomics- and bioinformatics-enabled innovations in weed management to transform biosecurity systems.

Internally, the role will form part of the Biosecurity Research Program Leadership Team (Research Director + Group Leaders) and be accountable for the delivery of specific elements of the Program’s overall impact, science and financial objectives as well as the ongoing development of its strategy. Externally, the role will work closely with team leaders to (a) develop a vibrant portfolio of outcome-focussed multi-disciplinary research; (b) build new research partnerships that attract investment; and (c) collaboratively lead projects to deliver impact aligned with the science and strategy of the Weed Management Systems group. 

Your duties will include:

• Impact Science Leadership: Build research and innovation in weed management systems in Australia, leverage H&B and CSIRO capability, influence and connect with institutes/partners; build a portfolio of high impact projects; position CSIRO as a collaborative provider of research and innovation solutions for transforming weed management in Australia and internationally, and as part of CSIRO’s Missions; lead the brokering of public-private partnerships.
• Capability Leadership: Communicate the vision and strategy of H&B and the Biosecurity Program to inspire staff; strive for “Zero Harm” (physical and psychological) and actively promote a healthy, safe and environmentally sustainable workplace; build long?term science capability to deliver of the Program’s research and impact, including forecasting demand, monitoring science trends and stakeholder needs, and building a high-performance culture; attract, develop and retain world class talent.
• Engagement & Partnerships: Effectively engage with customers/clients/partners & identify opportunities for future collaboration; communicate the strategy and goals of the Biosecurity Program and H&B to stakeholders; develop a roadmap for deeper and more effective state and national partnerships; build strategic relationships within the organisation to execute the Biosecurity Program strategy; and develop and maintain national and/or international research collaborations and professional networks. 
• Resource Leadership: Support the Research Director in the management of financial resources, people, infrastructure and other assets; ensure best practice governance and management of commercial activities and intellectual property; manage delivery against milestones and quality standards; and contribute to the development of science plans.

Location:  Brisbane or Canberra, Australia
Salary:  AU$141k – AU$157k plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Tenure:  Indefinite
Reference:  77804

To be considered you will need:

1. A doctorate and/or equivalent research and/or industry experience in weed management or related discipline.
2. Demonstrated leadership in a relevant field of science, with a strong track record of outcomes or impact. Candidates with a strong record in translational/functional genomics in the context of plants are particularly encouraged to apply.
3. Evidence of strong industry and/or government engagement and strategic relationship management that grows new impact opportunities and supports positive and sustainable public good or commercial outcomes.
4. Proven ability to strategically develop effective programs and opportunities that respond to national and global sustainability research challenges, drawing from knowledge in innovation systems, mission-oriented R&D.
5. Demonstrated experience in growing, reshaping and revitalising a capability area.
6. Successful development and leadership of a pipeline and portfolio of science, research and innovation on a national and international scale.

For full details about this role please view the Position Description.

Eligibility

To be eligible to work in CSIRO you must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or either hold, or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.

The successful applicant will be required to obtain and provide a National Police Check or equivalent. 

Flexible Working Arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. 

Diversity and Inclusion

We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

About CSIRO

At CSIRO Australia's national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. We put the safety and wellbeing of our people above all else and earn trust everywhere because we only deal in facts. We collaborate widely and generously and deliver solutions with real impact. 

Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

How to Apply

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

Applications Close

28 Nov 2021, 11:00pm AEST/AEDT