Research Scientist, Perennial Pastures

Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: 861372
Location: 5064 - URRBRAE
Job status: Short Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

As a Research Scientist, Perennial Pastures, you will play a pivotal role in advancing the productivity, sustainability and resilience of Australia's livestock and mixed farming industries. Through innovative research and industry engagement, you will help shape the future of perennial pasture systems, delivering solutions that enhance farm profitability, strengthen natural resource management, and support the long-term success of regional communities.

Working within SARDI's Crop Sciences Branch, you will lead and contribute to nationally significant research in perennial pasture breeding, agronomy, and farming systems. Collaborating with leading researchers, universities, industry organisations, and private breeding companies, you will develop practical, science-based solutions that address emerging challenges and opportunities facing Australian agriculture.

Your research will have a direct pathway to adoption, contributing to the development of improved pasture cultivars, more productive and resilient farming systems, and evidence-based recommendations that help producers respond to changing climatic, environmental, and market conditions. By generating new knowledge, securing research investment, and fostering strong collaborative partnerships, you will influence agricultural outcomes at both state and national levels.

This is a unique opportunity to apply world-class science to real-world challenges, building SARDI's reputation for research excellence while delivering meaningful outcomes for producers, industry stakeholders, and rural communities. Your work will help drive innovation, strengthen industry competitiveness, and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for Australian agriculture.

About Us
South Australia is internationally recognised for the quality of its agriculture, food, and wine. Our regions are the backbone of our state and the economic powerhouse that drives prosperity for all South Australians.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency working in partnership with our primary industries, regional stakeholders and across all levels of government to advance the prosperity and sustainability of South Australia’s primary industries and regional communities.
We are a passionate team of around 800 people working across metropolitan and regional South Australia to develop and protect our state’s regions and food, wine, aquaculture, fisheries, forestry, grains, livestock, dairy and horticulture industries.
It's no wonder there are so many exciting and diverse career opportunities in our organisation. If you’re ready to join us, apply now!

Benefits
At the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, we offer our employees challenging and rewarding work with opportunities for career progression, learning and development and flexibility.

Our Commitment to Diversity
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.  We embrace diversity and welcome applications from all people, irrespective of culture, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age.

Special Conditions

• Successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete a National Police Check (NPC) prior to being made an offer of employment.
• Opportunity up to June 2028.
• Full time opportunity, 37.5 hours per week

Requirements

• Possession of a current driver’s license and willingness to drive.
• Out of hours work and inter / intrastate travel may be required
• Australian residency or current works permit is required (responsibility of applicant to provide evidence of a current work permit).
• You acknowledge your work, health and safety obligations and our expectations.
• The incumbent will be required to undertake emergency management training and must be willing to participate in emergency preparedness, response and recovery activities required by government agencies.

Remuneration
PO3 - $111,870 min - $119,994 max per annum, plus superannuation

Enquiries
Pauline Bowden
Executive Assistant to Research Director
Phone:61884290924
Email: pauline.bowden@sa.gov.au

Website: www.pir.sa.gov.au

Application Instructions
All applications must be submitted online.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please see the attached applicant instructions, and outline your skills and experience in relation to the Professional and Technical Knowledge, Innovation and Communication capabilities of the attached role description.
Applicants must include the contact information of at least 2 referees with 1 being your immediate supervisor/manager and a completed “Pre-Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector” form.

Applications close: 14/11/2026 11:45 PM

Attachments:
- Application Guidelines.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_240522.pdf
- Role Description -Perennial Pastures Crops and Pasture Improvement (PO3)#2.pdf

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.