Senior Research Scientist

ABARES Forest & Land Sciences seeks a highly motivated scientific research leader recognised in the field of forest science, ecology and management.

• Provide scientific analysis and reporting for forest policy-relevant advice
• Collaborate with governments and research bodies to develop scientific reports
• Liaise with governments and research bodies for sustainable forest management

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is a research bureau within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. We have a vacancy for a highly motivated scientific research leader recognised in the field of forest science, ecology and management to develop and manage a program of work with a focus on scientific analysis and reporting, and provision of policy-relevant advice.

As a senior scientific leader reporting to the Assistant Secretary, Natural Resources Branch, you will be well established in your career in forest sciences, experienced in leading teams, managing projects, collaborating widely, undertaking research and analysis, preparing high-quality briefings and scientific and policy communication products.

The duties of this role include:

• Undertake and lead advanced scientific research and analysis, and clearly articulate findings in reports, briefs, papers and presentations. Also includes ensuring the quality and timeliness of research outputs, and provision of effective and timely high-level advice to Departmental divisions, executive and Portfolio Minister.
• Manage and contribute to projects through provision of specialist technical expertise and research, and communication of research insights and outputs.
• Build partnerships, collaborate and ensure effective communication and consultation with internal and external stakeholders to understand, respond to, and anticipate, current and future requirements for Australian forest sector priorities and issues, both native forests and plantations.
• Negotiate effectively in national and international forums, on behalf of the Department.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the Forest and Land Science Program work plan, to ensure projects are aligned with Departmental priorities.
• Ensure finances and people resources are prudently and effectively managed.

What we are looking for

Knowledge and experience

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

• An excellent record of achievement in applied forest science, environmental science or natural resource management.
• Extensive scientific experience, preferably including in Australia’s native forests and plantations, working in one or more of forest ecology, forest health and vitality, forest carbon dynamics, or forest productivity.
• Experience with analysing or reporting on environmental performance and/or sustainable forest management.
• A strong understanding of the management of Australia’s forests and forest industries.
• A sound history of successful project management and delivery.

Skills and capabilities

The successful candidate will possess the following attributes, skills, and capabilities:

• A strong background in applied research in one or more of forest ecology, sustainable natural resource management or environmental sciences.
• Highly developed scientific and analytical skills, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly motivated, productive and able to work carefully, accurately and rapidly with a high level of attention to detail.
• An understanding of relevant federal government responsibilities, programs and legislation.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain constructive professional working relationships and collaborations with colleagues and staff including from other government bodies, external agencies, and industry.

Mandatory qualifications

Bachelor of Science (Honours), or equivalent qualification, in an appropriate discipline (forest sciences, environmental sciences, natural resource management or a related field). Postgraduate qualifications are an advantage.

Flexible employment arrangements are available with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.