Department of Primary Industries and Regions
Job reference: ******
Location: **** - URRBRAE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to EveryoneHelp Shape the Future of Australia's Pulse
Industry
We are seeking a motivated Research Officer -
Ecophysiology to join our Crop Sciences team and
contribute to innovative research that supports the sustainability
of Australia's pulse industries.
This exciting role will play a key part in the delivery of the
$6 million investment project, "Reducing Pod Drop in
Lentil", aimed at improving harvestable crop yield for
growers.
Working within a collaborative research environment, you
will contribute to cutting-edge pre-breeding research focused on
crop ecophysiology, genetics and trait development.
About the Role
As the Research Officer - Ecophysiology, you will provide
technical and operational support for field-based research
investigating crop phenology, canopy development, yield formation,
and pod drop traits.
You will be involved in planning, conducting
and monitoring field experiments, collecting and managing
high-quality research data, and supporting the successful delivery
of project milestones.
Working closely with researchers, industry
partners and collaborators, you will contribute to research
outcomes that drive innovation and productivity improvements across
the pulse industry.
Key Responsibilities
Assist in the design, establishment and management of field
experiments.
Collect, record and manage high-quality research data
relating to crop phenology, canopy development, yield formation
and pod drop.
Provide technical and operational support to ecophysiology
research programs.
Contribute to the timely delivery of project milestones and
reporting requirements.
Ensure research activities are conducted safely and in
accordance with established protocols.
Collaborate with internal research teams, industry
stakeholders and external research partners.
Support data integrity, quality assurance and continuous
improvement initiatives.
Provide assistance across Crop Sciences research teams
during peak periods to support successful project
delivery.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have:
A qualification in agricultural science, plant science,
agronomy, crop physiology, or a related discipline.
Experience supporting field-based agricultural
research.
Strong data collection, record-keeping and analytical
skills.
Excellent organisational skills and attention to




detail.
The ability to work effectively both independently and as
part of a multidisciplinary team.
Strong communication skills and the ability to build
productive working relationships with industry and research
stakeholders.
A commitment to workplace safety and research
excellence.
Why Join Us?
This is an prospect to work on a high-profile research
initiative that will directly benefit South Australian growers and
contribute to the future development of lentil varieties with
improved yield performance.
You will be part of a cooperative
research team committed to delivering practical outcomes for
industry through science and innovation.
Apply now and help advance research that supports a
productive and resilient agricultural future.
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 September ****.
Full Time opportunity, 37.5 hours per week.
Requirements
Possession of a current driver's licence 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 when applying for a role.
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.
Qualifications
Essential
PhD in Agricultural Science, Applied Biology, Environmental
Science or related field (or equivalent experience).
Desirable
(Experience working with pulse crops; proficiency in
advanced statistical analysis, including R and/or Python; and a
record of scientific publications commensurate with career
stage.
Remuneration
PO2 - $94,769 min - $109,787 max per annum, plus
superannuation
Enquiries
Victor Sadras
Principal Scientist
Phone: **********
Email: ******
Website:
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,
Attention to Detail 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: 09/09/2026 11:45 PM
Attachments:- Application Guidelines.pdf
- Pre-Employment-Declaration_******.pdf
- Role Description - PO2 Research Officer - Ecophysiology.pdf
Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and versatile ways of working including part-time.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

📌 Research Officer – Ecophysiology (Adelaide)
🏢 Department of Primary Industries & Regions
📍 Adelaide