New Zealand Forest Research Ltd trading as Scion Looking for Senior Scientist Molecular Forest Pathology – Scion at Rotorua Central, Bay of Plenty Full Time

Senior Scientist – Molecular Forest Pathology

Full Time Position (40 hours pw)

Based in Rotorua

• Develop and lead innovative molecular pathology research that supports protection of New Zealand’s planted and indigenous forests.
• Deliver high-quality and impactful molecular pathology outputs that contribute to Scion’s 2030 Strategy of Right tree, Right place, Right purpose.
• Provide molecular biology, “omics” and bioinformatic expertise and support to the Pathology and wider science teams to enable high quality outcomes.

Who are we?

Scion specialises in research, science and technology development for the forestry industry, wood products and wood-derived materials sectors. We lead new technology development for renewables, bioproducts, and energy; and the establishment of a broader based bioeconomy. We are a Crown Research Institute dedicated to forestry and are home to more than 300 science and support staff on our two main campuses in Rotorua and Christchurch. Scion also values a culture of ensuring employees can pursue innovation and excellence in their science delivery.

About the role:

An opportunity exists for a Senior Scientist – Molecular Forest Pathology to join our Pathology Diagnostics and Collections Team based at our Rotorua Campus. The successful applicant will be part of a team delivering innovative research that addresses some of the most critical issues facing forestry, including the interaction between pathogens, their hosts and environment. You will have opportunities to lead, define and develop projects in molecular biology, “omics” and bioinformatics, and offer mentoring and coaching to others with a focus on advancing Scion’s science excellence!

To be successful in this role, your skills and experience will include:

This is a senior role, requiring a PhD or Master’s Degree equivalent with ideally 10+ years of experience of delivering applied science impact.

You will have demonstrated experience in:

• Molecular biology skills, including PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA and RNA extraction, molecular cloning, etc.
• Working with the “omics” of things, including transcriptomics, proteomics, etc.
• Preparation of samples for next generation sequencing.
• Bioinformatic analytical methods, including metabarcoding, genome assembly, population genetics, and comparative genomics.
• Mycology, including isolation, identification, and culture methods.
• General and / or forest pathology background.

And:

• Have a strong track record of peer reviewed outputs.
• Are a great relationship builder and willing to interact and contribute to industry and our stakeholders.
• You are a team player and have an enthusiastic and innovated approach to science tasks.

Why Scion?

We are home to creative science minds and have a vibrant culture ensuring employees can pursue innovation and excellence in their science delivery, right at the heart of New Zealand’s forest industry. Scion offers an enviable working environment with excellent work/life balance initiatives, we are proud to offer:

• A great career that enables positive outcomes for Aotearoa, New Zealand.
• Flexible work options including a 9-day fortnight.
• Continuous professional development.
• An enviable work environment with an enjoyable collaborative culture.
• A demonstrated commitment to Good Employer/EEO principles.
• A great work location on the edge of Rotorua’s world famous Whakarewarewa Forest
• See more benefits of working at Scion

Full time role 40 hours per week

Rate of Pay $90,000.00 -$100,000.00 pa

Applications Close: 30 October 2022

If this role sounds like the opportunity you have been waiting for, do not hesitate to apply, due to the urgency to fill this role, interviews may happen during the application period.

For further information and to apply online, please refer to our website: www.scionresearch.com