About Sugar Research Australia (SRA)
Sugar Research Australiainvests in and manages a portfolio of research, development and adoption projects that drive productivity, profitability and sustainability for the Australian sugarcane industry.
We have highly dedicated and passionate people working on industry-critical projects to deliver tangible value outcomes and impact for our industry stakeholders.
About the role
The Quantitative Genomics Scientist will drive the development and deployment of genomics-driven computational breeding, integrating high-dimensional genomic and phenotypic information through advanced statistical methods to translate multi-omics data into trait prediction models, crossing strategies, and simulations that inform breeding decisions across the pipeline.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, validate, and continuously refine genomic and genotype-to-phenotype prediction models (GBLUP, Bayesian, machine learning-based models) for key agronomic, physiological, quality, and disease resistance traits.
- Benchmark and continuously improve prediction accuracy using cross-validation, forward-prediction schemes, and updated training populations.
- Incorporate multi-environment trial (MET) data, GxE interactions, and multi-omics streams (genomics, phenomics, environomics) into multi-trait prediction frameworks.
- Develop and refine genomic prediction models tailored to complex polyploid allele dosage dynamics and non-additive genetic effects.
- Support the design and implementation of simulation-based breeding program optimisation strategies (genetic gain vs cost vs cycle time).
- Contribute to the development of computational crossing tools that predict progeny performance and optimise mate allocation strategies.
- Publish research outputs in high-impact journals and communicate findings via conference presentations and technical reports.
About you
You will bring with you the following qualifications, capabilities and experience:
Essential
- Ph.D. in Quantitative Genetics, Plant Breeding, Bioinformatics, Genomics, or related field.
- 3+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience in quantitative genetics, genomics, computational biology, or related field.
- Demonstrated experience in working in crop improvement programs and translating computational findings to applied breeding outcomes.
- Proven track record in handling large-scale high-throughput genomic and phenotypic datasets.
- Advanced proficiency in building reproducible statistical and analytical pipelines using R/Python.
- Strong track record of peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals.
Desirable
- Relevant research experience in sugarcane or other polyploid crops.
- Experience with multi-omics data integration and machine learning frameworks.
- Familiarity with crossing simulation, mate allocation, or breeding program optimisation software.
Please note this is a permanent role and some intra- and inter-state travel may be required.
8.00 am 27 November 2026
Applicants must have the right to work in Australia in order to apply. The successful applicant will also be required to undertake medical screening, drug and alcohol screening, and a police check.
Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
