Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Fellow in Crop Quantitative Genetics Full-time

Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI)

Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 3 years

Base salary will be in the range $83,698.91 – $111,431.10 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A); or $117,120.53 – $138,769.70 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level B)

Based at our vibrant St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity

Join UQ's Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI) and be at the forefront of agricultural innovation. In this role, you will help shape the future of canola breeding by developing and refining cutting-edge predictive breeding methods in collaboration with diverse research and industry partners. You will optimise selection and mating strategies to accelerate multi-trait genetic gain, and contribute to the development of elite hybrid combinations using state-of-the-art technologies including genomics, artificial intelligence, genetic simulation, and speed breeding.

This is a unique opportunity to expand your expertise in applied breeding innovation, work alongside leaders in the field, and make a tangible impact on agriculture through collaborative, industry-focused research.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Research: Contribute to an innovative research program in quantitative genetics and genomics, collaborate on research projects, seek and manage research funding, publish in reputable journals, utilize best practice research methodologies, and participate in project discussions.
• Supervision and Researcher Development: Supervise students, recruit and manage employees, provide performance feedback and support training in predictive breeding, resolve conflicts, and ensure correct remuneration and benefits.
• Citizenship and Service: Develop partnerships, demonstrate leadership through mentoring, engage in internal service roles and committees, perform administrative functions, provide support to colleagues, and uphold university values.

About You

For appointment at Level A

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in a relevant field e.g. Quantitative Genetics, Crop Genomics, Plant Breeding.
• An emerging profile in research in the field of quantitative genetics or plant breeding.
• Evidence of publications in reputed refereed journals and presenting at conferences.
• Evidence of contributions towards successfully obtaining external research funding.
• Some experience in meaningful internal service roles and contributions towards external activities.

Additional for Level B

• A growing profile in research in the field of quantitative genetics or plant breeding.
• A developing reputation and track record of publications in reputed refereed journals and presenting at conferences.
• Evidence of successfully seeking, obtaining and managing external research funding.
• Evidence of a high level of quality teaching at undergraduate, honours and postgraduate level across a variety of settings, including small and large groups.
• A growing record of supervision of Honours and Research Higher Degree students to successful completion.
• Experience in meaningful internal service roles in conjunction with active contributions to external activities.

Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of relevant pre-employment checks, which may include verification of the right to work in Australia and qualifications check. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We may support you with obtaining employer-sponsored work rights and a relocation support package, however upfront costs will still be expected to be covered. You can find out more about life in Australia's Sunshine State here.

Applications Close Sunday April 26th 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-62825)

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Dr Owen Powell – o.powell2@uq.edu.au.

For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.

We welcome applications from all individuals and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. To be considered, please ensure you upload:

• Cover letter addressing Selection Criteria
• Resume

Our strength as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We're committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. If you require an alternative method to submit your application due to accessibility needs or personal circumstances, please contact talent@uq.edu.au.