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• Temporary opportunity until June 2027 (with possibility of extension)
• Full-time hours (35 hours/week)
• Based at Australian Botanic Garden - Mount Annan
• Salary relative to experience and ranges from $75,728 to $116,969 + super

 

Are you passionate about plant science and ready to tackle real-world conservation challenges?


The role
Join the dynamic team at the Australian PlantBank as a Plant Conservation Scientist, where you’ll lead research into seed germination, early plant growth, and the environmental factors shaping biodiversity. Your work will directly support the conservation of Australia’s unique flora and contribute to the sustainability of our natural and urban environments.

This role offers the chance to design and deliver impactful research, collaborate with technical staff and students, and share findings through publications, workshops, and public engagement. You’ll also help secure funding and manage projects that support the broader goals of the Australian Institute of Botanical Science.

For more information read the full Role Description:  Plant Conservation Scientist


What you will bring to the role

• Postgraduate qualifications in plant science or related fields (highly regarded)
• Experience in plant conservation research, including seed biology, germplasm curation, and environmental modelling
• Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences
• Strong collaboration skills and a proactive approach to teamwork
• Motivation to contribute to education programs and public engagement
• Capability to manage research projects and funding in a competitive environment
• Familiarity with nursery, field, and laboratory techniques for plant growth and conservation

What is an essential requirement:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in plant science, with substantial experience in horticulture and botany with extensive knowledge of conservation of vascular plants.
• Current NSW Class C Driver's License or equivalent with the ability to drive manual vehicles.

About us
Botanic Gardens of Sydney, the trading name of the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust, is an esteemed institution recognized for its premier botanical research, vibrant outdoor live entertainment precinct, and three world-renowned botanic gardens. As the oldest scientific institution in Australia, we hold custodianship over $1.2 billion worth of significant cultural, heritage, and botanical collections. We are at the forefront of the NSW tourism sector, engaging visitors from around the globe.

Our Key Pillars:

• Australian Institute of Botanical Science: Australia’s leading botanical research institute, encompassing education, science, conservation, and collections.
• The Domain: Sydney’s premier outdoor live entertainment and activation precinct.
• Royal Botanic Garden Sydney: One of Australia’s top international tourist attractions and oldest scientific institution.
• Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan: The flagship campus of the Australian Institute of Botanical Science, home to the National Herbarium of New South Wales and the Australian PlantBank.
• Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah: Australia’s highest cool-climate botanic garden within a World Heritage Area.

What’s in it for me?
Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritize work/life balance and wellbeing with initiatives like flex leave and access to support programs. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.


Join us
If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close Sunday 17^th August 2025 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Cathy Offord on (02) 4634 7913 or cathy.offord@botanicgardens.nsw.gov.au.

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via talent.acquisition@dpie.nsw.gov.au or (02) 63637676​ - HR Support, option 2, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'.

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for the role or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn.