Overview
Scientist - Carbohydrate Physiology. Plant and Food Research (Plant and Food Research). Carbohydrate Physiology Team, Fruit Crops Physiology Group, Sustainable Production Portfolio is looking for a Scientist, reporting to the team leader – Carbohydrate Physiology.
Purpose of the Position : To conduct plant physiology and horticultural research on kiwifruit, subtropical crops and other plants of interest. The position will contribute to fundamental and applied research programmes supported by a range of funding sources. The research is focused on understanding physiological mechanisms to optimise plant yield and product quality of plants in environmentally, socially and economically sustainable systems. Activities are largely orchard based with some laboratory work. This position is in an experienced team recognised for their expertise, with strong collaborative links to researchers in other disciplines (e.g. breeding, genomics, plant chemistry, postharvest science, microscopy and environmental management) as well as links with associated industries.
Location : Kerikeri, New Zealand.
Note : This description reflects the current available information and may be subject to change.
Accountabilities
- Contribute to sourcing funding for research projects from a range of clients including developing proposals and budgets for contracts and then delivering results on time and within budget.
- Contribute to development and delivery of team research programmes / projects in response to strategic signals.
- Develop positive working relationships with other researchers, both within Plant & Food Research and externally with industry personnel, clients and end users. This may require occasional travel within New Zealand.
- Always act to enhance Plant & Food Research's scientific and industry reputation.
- Help design, implement and manage experiments to produce high quality outputs in a timely manner. This will include maintaining plants and growing systems, collecting, checking, collating and analysing data.
- Effectively coordinate multiple workstreams at the same time to achieve excellent results and meet deadlines.
- Ensure laboratory and field equipment and facilities are maintained to a high standard and used correctly.
- Communicate key observations, suggestions for improvements, any problems or errors to the project leader in a timely manner.
- Prepare reports, scientific papers and popular articles in English to a high professional standard and to meet milestones / deadlines.
- Deliver effective oral presentation of results and associated information at industry, client and scientific meetings as required.
- Supervise science, casual, support staff and students.
- Follow health, safety and wellbeing instructions, policies and / or procedures and participate in training as required.
Professional Experience, Qualifications And Skills
A PhD or MSc in plant sciences / physiology or horticulture, with in-depth practical orchard / field / laboratory experience, knowledge and skills.Experience and a proven track record in applied and fundamental plant research, as well as a demonstrated interest in plants.Broad understanding of and experience with horticultural systems and practical plant / orchard management as well as experience interacting with growers.A current Growsafe certificate and / or associated practical experience with agrichemicals.Practical experience with plant physiology methodologies and equipment as well as understanding of good laboratory / field practice.An ability to learn new skills and to develop new areas as required by Plant & Food Research strategy and team requirements.An accurate, organised and methodical approach to tasks and processes as well as a commitment to deliver effective, accurate and excellent work / project management.An ability to plan work schedules to meet agreed deadlines and quality standards in an environment where multiple projects run concurrently.Sound knowledge of and experience with experimental design, sampling (including for RNA and carbohydrate analysis), data collection / collation and data analysis using a range of toolsWell-developed computing skills with experience in the use of spreadsheets, statistical analysis, graphical display, word processing, reference management.Excellent ability to communicate effectively in oral and written English. Experience in the preparation and interpretation of data and associated information for reports, scientific papers and articles as well as related presentations.Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with a wide range of people within a small research site as well as across the rest of Plant & Food Research.Experience in supervising science, orchard, casual staff or students.Ability to take an active role in promoting a collaborative, collegial and supportive culture at the Kerikeri site and contribute to site compliance requirements.Highly skilled and experienced in problem solving and use of practical skills to solve a wide range of issues (e.g. working on remote field experiments when resources may be limited).Flexibility to work outside normal working hours if required, due to seasonal demands.Ability to travel domestically and internationally if required.A current full New Zealand driver’s licence.Professional Behaviours
The Holder Of This Position Is Expected To Consistently Demonstrate The Behaviours Described In The Plant & Food Research Leadership Framework. These IncludePersonal Characteristics : being generous, having courage, showing humility, being self-aware, trustworthy and positivePersonal Capability : demonstrating personal expertise, problem solving, being innovative or managing innovation, having business acumen, and professional developmentFocus On Results : taking responsibility for results, organising and setting standardsInterpersonal : communication, collaborating with others, building relationships, inspiring and developing peopleLeading Change : having a strategic perspective or a sense of the bigger picture, championing or participating in change, and connecting to the outside world, or bringing in fresh ideas.Measures of Performance
Performance will be reviewed in discussions with the incumbent's immediate manager and at an annual meeting as part of the Performance, Planning and Review (PPR) process.
To apply, follow this link : 57679 Scientist - Carbohydrate Physiology - Plant & Food Research - Careers at Science New Zealand
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