60275 Research Associate - Fixed-Term - Plant & Food Research

Research Associate
Applied Solutions for Plant Protection
Lincoln, New Zealand
Vacancy number: 60275
Full-time: 38 hours per week
Fixed-Term: approx 14 months

• Apply microbiology and plant pathology skills across laboratory, glasshouse and field research
• Collaborate with experienced scientists on applied plant pathology projects
• Develop a broad, hands‑on skill set through varied fixed‑term research work

What you will be doing | Ngā whāinga matua

• Conduct laboratory and field research on plant pathogens and microbes
• Support experimental design, data collection, and analysis
• Manage plants and assist with field and glasshouse work
• Contribute to reports, presentations, and scientific publications

What you will bring | Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako

To be successful in this role, the minimum qualifications required are:

• Relevant qualification (degree or diploma) in microbiology, plant pathology, or a closely related discipline
• Practical laboratory experience in microbiology and basic molecular biology (e.g. culturing, PCR/qPCR)
• Strong organisational skills with accurate data recording and ability to manage multiple projects
• Team‑focused and adaptable, with willingness to learn and work across lab, field and plant-based research

A copy of the Position Description is available for you to view once you click on the ‘apply’ button.

What you will get | Ngā hua o tēnei tūranga

 At the Bioeconomy Science Institute - Plant & Food Research Group, we offer excellent employee benefits and flexibility, such as;

• Four weeks annual leave, plus additional 7 days’ of paid leave
• Excellent benefit choices in retirement savings and wellbeing & health
• Focus on health and wellbeing with enhanced sick leave
• Ongoing career development opportunities

About us | Ko wai mātou

We're building something new. On 1 July 2025, AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research and Scion came together to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute. Now, we are more than 2200 people working to support the growth and resilience of the bioeconomy in New Zealand and beyond.

Together, our world-class science can do more to advance innovation in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology and manufacturing; protect and enhance ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks; and develop new bio-based technologies and products.

This position sits under the current Plant & Food Research group of the Bioeconomy Science Institute.

We welcome applicants who are excited to join us on this change journey.

Applcaitons close on Monday 6 April 2026 11:55pm.