Canola Breeder

Pacific Seeds - Australia; Toowoomba Regional; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacific Seeds in Toowoomba is seeking a Canola Breeder to contribute across germplasm development, field trials and phenomics/genomics projects within our R&D team. You will work closely with the Senior Canola Breeder to support a pipeline of high-performing canola hybrids aligned with commercial goals.

This role offers exposure to germplasm development, disease assessment, molecular activities and breeder seed production, with opportunities to plan nurseries and coordinate with internal and

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD preferred in agriculture, horticulture or related field.
• Knowledge of crop production cycles and contemporary breeding techniques advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Support crossing block planning and greenhouse crossing activities.
• Assist with germplasm projects and doubled haploid line development.
• Design and execute breeding nurseries, field trials and disease nurseries.
• Manage breeding data and ensure canola database integrity; produce reports with statistical tools.
• Coordinate phenomics imaging, tissue/sample prep and genomic fingerprinting with service providers.

Skills

Breeding coordination

Field trials

Data management

Phenomics

Genomics coordination

Germplasm management

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in agriculture

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

Turn plant science into the next generation of canola hybrids

A successful breeding program brings together more than crossing and field selection. It depends on well-designed trials, accurate data, disciplined germplasm management and the effective use of technologies such as phenomics and genomics.

Pacific Seeds is seeking a Canola Breeder to contribute across each of these areas as part of our Research and Development team in Toowoomba.

Known internally as the Trait Development Breeder, this position will work closely with our Senior Canola Breeder to support the development of a strong pipeline of high-performing canola hybrids aligned with commercial requirements.

The role

This position provides broad exposure to commercial canola breeding, from the development and evaluation of germplasm through to field trials, disease assessment, molecular activities, data management and breeder seed production.

You will help plan and deliver breeding nurseries and trials across Australia, coordinate technical activities with internal specialists and external providers, and maintain the reliable breeding data needed to inform program decisions.

Germplasm and trait development

You will support crossing block planning and greenhouse crossing, contribute to elite germplasm projects, assist with doubled haploid line development and hybrid nurseries, and help maintain canola gene bank resources in accordance with established procedures.

Field breeding

You will assist with the design and execution of breeding nurseries, yield trials and disease nurseries. This includes coordinating with contractors, monitoring trial delivery, reporting on progress and supporting operational activities during seasonal peaks.

Breeding data

You will create files for electronic field data capture, collect agronomic and yield information, incorporate quality results, and ensure breeding records are accurately maintained in the canola database. You will also use statistical software to produce reports.

Phenomics and genomics

You will coordinate trial imaging and phenomics projects, prepare tissue and seed samples, support genomic fingerprinting, and work with specialist teams, molecular laboratories and service providers to progress breeding projects.

Plant pathology and breeder seed

You will support the design and monitoring of canola disease nurseries, coordinate third‑party pathology testing, capture disease data and assist with the development of pure breeder seed for handover to the supply chain.

Who we are looking for

This opportunity may appeal to an early-career breeder, plant scientist or postgraduate researcher who wants to build broad commercial breeding experience. It may also suit someone already working in agricultural research who is ready to take greater ownership of breeding activities and technical coordination.

A master's degree or doctorate in agriculture, horticulture or a related field is preferred. Knowledge of crop production cycles and contemporary breeding techniques would be advantageous, while previous experience in agriculture, seed or R&D is welcomed but not essential.

Success in the role will require:

• Scientific curiosity and a genuine interest in crop improvement.
• Strong attention to detail and accurate record keeping.
• Confidence working across field, greenhouse, laboratory and office environments.
• The ability to organise seasonal work and coordinate activities with multiple stakeholders.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Good computer literacy, including Excel and data-entry software.
• A commitment to safe work practices and established operating procedures.
• A current C Class Driver's Licence.

The position involves domestic travel during the season, limited international travel and some seasonal overtime or weekend work. It also includes physical field and seed-handling activities.

About Pacific Seeds

Established in Central Queensland in 1962, Pacific Seeds breeds, produces and markets seed for Australian summer and winter cropping systems. Our work combines research, innovation and collaboration with growers to develop new products and technologies for Australian agriculture.