Molecular Plant Pathology Technician

Sugar Research Australia; Cassowary Coast Regional; Hybrid; AUD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Sugar Research Australia is seeking a Molecular Plant Pathology Technician to support researchers in North Queensland. The role involves applying molecular methods (DNA extraction, qPCR), handling lab tasks, and contributing to trials in hot, humid field settings.

You will work within a team of researchers and technicians in a dynamic R&D environment. The position is a 2-year contract based in Tully, offering salary competitiveness and career development opportunities for graduates or

Qualifications

• Essential: Understanding of plant pathology and/or plant biology.
• Essential: Experience with DNA extraction and qPCR.
• Essential: Initiative and judgement on technical and scientific approaches.
• Essential: Able to conduct repetitive lab work and work in hot/humid environments.
• Essential: Ability to use microscopes.
• Essential: Teamwork with researchers and technicians; lead in defined activities.
• Essential: Excellent organisation and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Essential: Effective communication; autonomous when required.
• Essential: Proficient computer skills; meticulous data recording.
• Essential: Current manual driver’s licence to drive SRA vehicles.
• Essential: Degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Horticulture, Molecular Biology, Environmental or Biological Science or related discipline; relevant experience considered.

Skills

Plant pathology

Molecular techniques

DNA extraction

qPCR

Microscopes

Initiative & judgement

Team collaboration

Organization

Communication

Computer skills

Driver's licence

Education

Degree or Diploma in Agriculture/Horticulture/Molecular Biology/Environmental/Biological Science

Job description

A new opportunity for a Molecular Plant Pathology Technician within our Research & Development business unit has become available.
North Qld location - Tully
2-year contract
Competitive salary and career development opportunity

ABOUT THE ROLE

The principal role of Technicians is to provide scientific and technical support to Researchers. Within broad guidelines about approach and milestones, a Technician undertakes a broad range of technical duties requiring scientific knowledge and professional judgement to solve complex problems. Technicians may also have responsibilities for the management of technical facilities and/or services.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

YOUR REQUIREMENTS

Essential:

• Understanding of plant pathology and/or plant biology
• Experience in the use of molecular techniques such as DNA extraction and qPCR
• Demonstrated level of initiative and judgement on technical and scientific approaches, and on the practical aspects of trials / investigations.
• Proven ability to conduct repetitive work within a laboratory setting and physical work in hot and humid environments.
• Ability to use microscopes
• Demonstrated ability to work within a team of managers/researchers/technicians /casuals and to take the lead in specific well-defined activities.
• Excellent organisation skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Demonstrated effective communication skills appropriate to the scope of activities required, and proven autonomy and self-sufficiency if required to carry out activities unsupervised.
• Competency in computer skills and high attention to detail in respect to recording data and outcomes.
• A current manual driver’s licence is required to drive SRA vehicles.
• Degree or Diploma level qualification in Agriculture, Horticulture, Molecular Biology, Environmental, Biological Science or related discipline from a recognised tertiary training entity is preferred, however candidates with relevant experience gained in service will also be considered.

Desirable:

• Plant pathology experience including laboratory and field-based skills
• Experience culturing micro-organisms
• A high level of initiative on both technical and operational issues
• Experience working within sugarcane or other cropping industries.

FURTHER INFORMATION

A full position description can be viewed at the link below.