Current Opportunities
The Program Director, Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative is a pivotal and influential role working with and representing seven RDC’s coordinating plant biosecurity research. You will take responsibility for delivering the Plant Biosecurity Research Institute program (PBRI) and will champion the research collaboration of PBRI members, with a specific focus is plant biosecurity research. The role involves:
- Leading and responsibility for collaboration, stakeholder management, influencing outcomes and program deliverables
- Identify and address R&D gaps in plant biosecurity
- Lead the PBRI Strategy
- Foster cross sectoral priorities and collaboration
- Maintain governance and success of the programs that are operated by the seven RDC’s
- Convene and facilitate PBRI meetings to ensure program is aligning with outcome expectations and report accordingly
Job posted on SEEK on 13/07/2026 - no closing date advertised.
As a Professional Officer Serology, you will contribute to the development and enhancement of diagnostic testing capabilities that support the protection of NSW agricultural industries, animals and trade markets.
In this role, you will undertake research and development activities to improve serological testing methods, evaluate emerging technologies and provide specialist technical expertise to laboratory teams and clients. Working closely with scientists, pathologists and technical staff, you will help deliver accurate and reliable diagnostic outcomes while identifying opportunities to improve laboratory performance, efficiency and quality systems.
Applications close 28 July 2026
Reporting to the Executive Director, Biosecurity Victoria, the Chief Plant Health Officer is Victoria's principal scientific authority on plant health and biosecurity. You will lead the development of strategic plant biosecurity policy, programs and preparedness initiatives that protect Victoria's horticulture, forestry, agriculture and natural environment from exotic and emerging plant pests and diseases. Providing trusted advice to the Executive Director, senior government leaders and the Minister for Agriculture, you will influence policy and decision-making at the highest levels while representing Victoria on national committees and negotiating outcomes that protect the state's biosecurity and trade interests. Leading a highly specialised team, you will also drive emergency preparedness and response capability, strengthen partnerships across government, industry and research, and foster innovation across surveillance, compliance and legislative frameworks.
Applications close 22 July 2026
The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is a research bureau within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). The ABARES Stream is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of research and policy, applying what you have learnt at university or the workplace to interesting and challenging problems. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF) Graduate Development Program is a structured, 12 month program designed to support graduates as they build capability, gain practical experience, and establish their careers in the APS.
Find out more on their website
Applications close 25 July 2026
As Principal Adviser, you will act as a trusted strategic partner to the Director, providing high-impact leadership, advice, and support across both strategic and operational priorities that underpin the effective delivery of New Zealand's core biosecurity functions.
Applications close 19 July 2026
To advertise an opportunity on the NPBDN website, please contact us
Join our network
Everyone working in plant biosecurity diagnostics in Australian or New Zealand is encouraged to join NPBDN. Relevant disciplines include bacteriologists, botanists, entomologists, general plant pathologists, molecular biologists, mycologists, nematologists, phytoplasmologists, virologists and weed scientists.
Hear from diagnostics professionals
There are a number of different and exciting pathways in a plant biosecurity career.
