Animal Genomics Research Associate

AgResearch; Otago; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

AgResearch in Invermay (Dunedin region) seeks a Research Associate for the Animal Genomics Team. The role focuses on planning, data collection, and quality control of livestock data across NZ farms and facilities, supporting genetic improvement efforts for sheep, cattle, and deer.

Travel across NZ required. The ideal candidate holds a science qualification and strong animal handling, data management, and communication skills, with willingness to work away from Invermay and collaborate with

Qualifications

• A tertiary qualification in animal science, genetics or a relevant science discipline and/or relevant experience in a research or stud breeding setting.
• Advanced sheep and cattle handling skills, with a strong awareness of animal welfare.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and lead the collection of data from livestock, with excellent attention to detail and a commitment to data quality.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with farmers, breeders, industry partners and scientists.
• Ability and willingness to travel and work away from home with a valid driver’s licence.

Responsibilities

• Project planning, data and sample collection, data processing and quality control across diverse NZ locations.
• Plan, coordinate and undertake livestock data and sample collection; manage and quality-check research data.
• Work independently and as part of a team, contribute to solving field-based research challenges; prioritize data quality and animal welfare.

Skills

Livestock data collection

Data quality control

Communication

Field research

Travel readiness

Education

Animal science or genetics degree

Job description

• Permanent
• Full time
• Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao, Invermay Campus, Dunedin

Mō te Pakihi | About the Company:

The Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao has formed through the merger of AgResearch, Plant & Food Research, Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research, and Scion. Our purpose is to drive innovation and commercial outcomes in the bioeconomy, using research and technology to support enduring economic growth and resilience, a healthy environment and beneficial social outcomes for New Zealand. We pursue opportunities to lift innovation, commercial outcomes, and adoption of advanced technology to drive economic growth across New Zealand. Through world-leading science, we drive innovation across agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology, and manufacturing. We protect and enhance ecosystems, strengthen biosecurity and climate resilience, and develop cutting-edge bio-based products and technologies.

We honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and embed te ao Māori throughout our transformation journey. As we come together, we are committed to learning and growing together through inclusive, equitable, and culturally responsiveness ways of working. All roles contribute, in ways relevant to their work, to giving effect to our Te Tiriti commitments through partnership, participation, protection and equity.

Kūrero mŏ te tūpanga | About the role

The Animal Genomics Team is seeking someone passionate about livestock research and working with animals to join our team of Research Associates who generate the livestock data that underpins our research and supports future-focused genetic improvement across New Zealand’s sheep, cattle and deer industries.

This is a diverse, hands-on role encompassing project planning, data and sample collection, data processing and quality control. Work takes place in a variety of locations throughout New Zealand, including our research farms, commercial and breeder farms, and meat processing plants.

We are looking for someone who is comfortable working both independently and as part of a team, locally and away from Invermay. You will plan, co-ordinate and undertake livestock data and sample collection, manage and quality-check research data, and contribute to solving the practical challenges that arise in field-based research. The role requires initiative, problem-solving, good communication and a commitment to high standards of data quality, animal welfare, and health and safety.

This is a full-time role based at our Invermay campus and includes travel throughout New Zealand for data and sample collection.

Ŋopūmana | About you

• A tertiary qualification in animal science, genetics or a relevant science discipline and/or relevant experience in a research or stud breeding setting.
• Advanced sheep and cattle handling skills, with a strong awareness of animal welfare.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and lead the collection of data from livestock, with excellent attention to detail and a commitment to data quality.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with farmers, breeders, industry partners and scientists.
• Ability and willingness to travel and work away from home with a valid driver’s licence.

ņăăć a a tak a māŋ | What we offer

You will be part of a passionate and supportive team, working in an environment where your skills make a direct impact. We offer:

• The opportunity to support world-class science in a role that truly matters.

• A culture that values innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.

• A collaborative and inclusive workplace guided by our organisational values.

Applications close Sunday 29th November 2026.