- An exceptional opportunity to lead a world-renowned research program in combating cereal rust diseases and safeguarding global food security
- Continuing, full-time position with an attractive remuneration package.
About the opportunity
The University is seeking to appoint a Professor and Chair in Cereal Rust to lead a world-class research program focused on the management, genetics, and epidemiology of cereal rust diseases. This is a strategic role aimed at strengthening Australia’s response to plant pathogens that threaten global food security, with a particular focus on rust diseases affecting wheat and other cereal crops. The research program has a 100-year history of excellence in research and training and the successful applicant will bring innovative ideas and skills to enhance our leadership and impact.
The position will be on the University’s Camden Campus. This role follows a standard 40:40:20 workload model — that is, 40% research, 40% teaching (also referred to as ‘education’ or ‘learning and teaching’), and 20% service and leadership. However, the University is open to considering a research-focused appointment during the initial phase, allowing the successful candidate to establish and accelerate their research program.
About you (skills, capabilities and experience)
The successful applicant will bring extensive international expertise in host-pathogen interactions, biosecurity, and disease risk management, with a focus on food security, environmental sustainability and resilience. The successful applicant will have a PhD in a relevant field, a track record of excellence in research publications and successful applications for research funding, in building successful teams (including successful supervision of Higher Degree by Research Students) and demonstrating clear leadership in the field. They will have a track record of success in teaching, research and publication commensurate with an international leader in the field of plant pathology and host/pathogen genetics. The successful applicant will have research interests that complement and/or enrich the existing strengths and expertise in the School of Life and Environmental Sciences (SOLES) including plant breeding, digital agriculture, molecular plant biology, and plant development science. They should have a strong track-record of successful collaboration nationally and internationally and articulate a vision for potential collaboration within SOLES, across the University of Sydney and beyond. They will have excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication and time management skills.
Sponsorship / work rights for Australia
Visa sponsorship and relocation assistance will be provided if required.
Term and remuneration
This is a continuing appointment on a full-time basis. The successful candidate will be offered a competitive remuneration package commensurate with the responsibilities of the position and the candidate’s relevant experience and qualifications.
Pre-employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.
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EEO statement
At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Gold employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion.
How to apply
Applications (including a CV and cover letter outlining how your skills, capabilities and experience meet the requirements for the role) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. Please refer to the candidate information brochure for further details.
Candidate Information Brochure
If you have any trouble downloading the Candidate Information Brochure please email the Senior Talent Acquisition team via recruitment.seniortalent@sydney.edu.au and we will share this with you.
For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.
For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Dr Mushtaq Sobhan (Senior Talent Partner, Senior Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Operations) on +61 433 556 642 or by email mushtaq.sobhan@sydney.edu.au
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The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
