About the role:Our client, a respected government organisation, is seeking a
Plant Pathologist (PO2) to support high‑impact research and diagnostics within their Crop & Food Science division. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in both the lab and the field and wants to contribute directly to Queensland’s agricultural future. This is a contract role until March 2027, with the possibility of extension, working approximately
29 hours/week, Monday-Friday.
Please note: Applications for this role close Wednesday 18th February.
In this role, you will:
- Collaborate with a team of scientists on applied research projects focused on cotton pathogens
- Conduct plant disease diagnostics and help deliver a pathology reporting service for cotton growers in QLD & NSW
- Perform molecular diagnostics including DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, sequencing, and LAMP assays
- Isolate, identify, and maintain fungal and bacterial pathogens
- Present research findings to internal teams, industry partners, and stakeholders
- Assist with planning and conducting field, glasshouse, and laboratory experiments on cotton diseases
- Participate in cotton disease surveys across Queensland, collecting plant and soil samples
- Support project planning, milestone delivery, and reporting
- Build effective working relationships across research centres and industry
Skills/Experience- Degree in Agricultural Science, Science, or a related field
- Experience in plant pathology, including lab, field, and glasshouse work
- Strong molecular biology skills with diagnostic experience
- Willingness to work outdoors and travel regionally when required
- Strong communication, organisational, and teamwork skills
- Valid C‑class driver’s licence
- Physical ability to work in field environments
Apply! If you think this could be the role for you then please apply now! Please send us a cover letter AND a detailed resume in WORD format (PDFs can be corrupted / not processed). Or, if you have any questions, please contact Steph on 0731750680.With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.