Rice Breeding Australia Ltd (RBA) is a not-for-profit company established to transform rice breeding in Australia. The key purpose of RBA is to provide new energy and commercial focus to rice breeding so that it can be a key part of driving a major transformation in water productivity and ultimately long-term viability of the Australian rice industry. The members of the company are AgriFutures Australia, SunRice and Rice Growers Association.
The Opportunity
This newly created role supports the Senior Breeder across both glasshouse and field breeding operations. The Assistant Plant Breeder will be involved in late-stage variety development and pure seed production, working hands-on across the program and supporting the implementation of modern breeding technologies.
You will work closely with the Senior Breeder to manage a commercially focused breeding program, including practical involvement in glasshouse work, crossing decisions, field trials and pure seed increase. There is genuine scope for growth as the program expands and new infrastructure comes online.
You will also be directly involved in:
- Seed processing, preparation, storage and quality control
- Managing experiments, nurseries and pure seed increases
- Late-stage field evaluation and trial management
- Seasonal planning and production numbers
- Coordinating and supporting breeding technical staff
- Working with the Senior Breeder to ensure program efficiency, compliance and budget adherence
You are practical, hands-on and genuinely passionate about applied plant breeding. You want a field-based role, not a lab-focused position. Broadacre crop experience (grain crops preferred) is ideal, and you’re comfortable working in summer heat and long field days.
We encourage applications from early-career breeders, including recent graduates, who have strong practical experience through placements, internships or field-based work.
Essential Requirements
- Degree in Agricultural Science or related discipline
- Strong understanding of field-based plant breeding
- Experience or exposure to pure seed production (desirable)
- Valid NSW/Australian driver’s licence
- Willingness to travel regionally, nationally and internationally
- Close mentorship from an experienced Senior Breeder
- Exposure to national and international rice industry networks
- Access to state-of-the-art breeding technologies and new infrastructure
