Early Career Scientist, Pre PhD Professional Development Program

DPIRD is seeking Expressions of Interest from motivated employees across Agriculture and Biosecurity and Fisheries and Forestry who are interested in pursuing a PhD aligned with the department's Research, Development and Extension (RD&E) priorities. The Early Career Scientist Program is a strategic capability initiative under the RD&E Strategy 2025-2030, which focuses on strengthening DPIRD's long-term scientific capability and developing the next generation of research leaders.

The strategy identifies four priority areas for research and innovation: future-ready primary production, biosecurity preparedness and response, climate-resilient primary production, and sustainable resource and land management. Recognising that successfully undertaking a PhD while maintaining operational responsibilities requires careful preparation and support, this foundation program has been designed to help prospective candidates and supervisors build the relationships, skills and confidence needed before commencing doctoral studies.

About the Opportunity The Pre-PhD Professional Development Program will run from February 2027 to August 2027 and support up to six prospective PhD candidates and their supervisors. The program will assist participants to: Explore and refine research ideas aligned with DPIRD's RD&E priorities. Develop a clearer understanding of the expectations and commitments associated with doctoral study.

Strengthen candidate-supervisor partnerships and establish shared expectations. Develop the self-leadership, communication and planning skills required to balance doctoral study with ongoing workplace responsibilities. Understand pathways to university enrolment and future research collaboration. The course is built around a one-day foundations for Self-Leadership workshop, two online master classes and a half-day applying new skills workshop in Sydney.

Skills covered will include self-awareness and emotional intelligence, influencing and engaging, resilience and wellbeing, time management, and strengthening candidate-supervisor relationships. What Participants Will Receive Participants will have access to: A tailored professional development program for candidates and supervisors.

Mentoring and coaching to support preparation for doctoral study. Access to a peer cohort of aspiring researchers from across DPIRD. Support to develop research ideas and future PhD pathways aligned with departmental priorities. Practical tools and strategies to balance research aspirations with operational responsibilities.

Who Should Apply? Applications are encouraged from employees who: Are temporary or ongoing employees within Agriculture and Biosecurity or Fisheries and Forestry for the duration of the program. Are considering undertaking a higher degree by research. Have demonstrated strong performance and potential to contribute to applied research.

Are interested in delivering research with practical outcomes for industry, communities and government. Can demonstrate alignment between their proposed research interests and DPIRD's RD&E priorities. Have the support of their manager and Executive to participate in the program.

What We're Looking For

A proposed area of research aligned with departmental priorities. Curiosity, initiative and a commitment to learning. An interest in collaboration across disciplines, industries and research organisations. Potential to contribute to DPIRD's future research capability. A genuine commitment to pursuing doctoral study and translating research into impact.

What You'll Gain Through participation in the program, you will: Build the foundations needed to successfully commence a PhD. Join a cohort of emerging researchers from across DPIRD. Expand your professional and research networks. Strengthen your leadership, communication and research capabilities. Access mentoring and development opportunities that support future scientific and technical leadership.

Contribute to building DPIRD's long-term research capability and expertise. How to Apply Applications should include: A current résumé. A brief cover letter outlining: why you are interested in this professional development opportunity how your future area of research aligns with DPIRD's RD&E priorities. Applications will be reviewed by a panel representing Agriculture and Biosecurity and Fisheries and Forestry.

Interested? This is an opportunity to invest in your professional development, explore a future research pathway and contribute to DPIRD's long-term scientific capability. Further information is available through the research-and-development-hub , which includes information about the RD&E Strategy and Early Career Scientist Program or you can contact Donna Mc.

Leod, Director R&D Office on [email protected] or 0436 323 299. Please note: While DPIRD supports participation through professional development, mentoring and workplace flexibility where possible, participants are responsible for securing future university enrolment and any associated PhD funding arrangements.