"Lead, Plant Transformation Services - Plant Synthetic Biology Australia (PSBA)"

Role Summary

This position will lead Plant Synthetic Biology Australia’s (PSBA) plant transformation services as part of an expert team. You will be responsible for managing projects and leading the team focussed on transforming key crop species that align with PSBA’s service offerings.

At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.

We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.

Work that matters

The role will also utilise tissue culture and molecular biology techniques used in plant synthetic biology experiments.

The position will assist with implementation and streamlining organisational processes and will liaise with all PSBA AU staff to make sure the facilities run efficiently, and ensure staff and students adopt a community of practise for facility operations.

The role will collaborate closely with the Innovation Officer to develop new service offerings and improve methodologies and will require a hands-on approach in the laboratory and in growth facilities on the Waite Campus from time to time.

The team

Plant Synthetic Biology Australia (PSBA) consists of a network of national facilities with nodes at Adelaide University, Australian National University, La Trobe University and University of Western Australia.

PSBA provides plant synthetic biology infrastructure and expertise to drive accelerated gains in agricultural productivity, and development of new products through environmentally sustainable bio-manufacturing.

Visit the AU website to learn more.

Our people

Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys variety and meeting new people. You will experience a range of tasks and interactions, keeping your workday interesting and engaging.

You will have the chance to build strong relationships with stakeholders and contribute to their satisfaction and success.

Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.

Experience

To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:

• Postgraduate qualifications or progress towards postgraduate qualifications and extensive relevant experience; or PhD in plant science, genetics, physiology or biotechnology, or a substantially relevant discipline
• Extensive experience in conducting independent scientific research, supervising research students or personnel and high-quality publications involving plant transformation.
• Evidence of successful execution of plant transformation projects and meeting project deadlines.
• Ability to build effective and constructive relationships with a diverse group of stakeholders through the provision of technical services.
• Demonstrated experience in managing multi-stakeholder projects, including strong analytical, problem solving and decision-making skills.
• Highly developed workload management skills with demonstrated experience in preparing high-quality and timely reports.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Launch your future with Adelaide University now

Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:

• your current CV
• a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role

Submit your application by 11:55pm Friday 27 February 2026.

The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.

For further information about this opportunity, please contact:

Andrew Jacobs
Business Manager | PSBA-AU
E: andrew.jacobs@adelaide.edu.au