Geneticist

at  DairyNZ

The New Zealand dairy industry is renowned the world over. It’s the result of passionate, proud people working towards a common goal - the success of the industry, and with it, the success of our country. That’s the scope of dairy - it’s vital, it’s diverse and it’s huge and so are the career opportunities at the heart of the primary sector powerhouse.
About NZAEL
New Zealand Animal Evaluation Limited (NZAEL), subsidiary of DairyNZ, focuses on the genetic improvement of New Zealand dairy cattle through robust genetic evaluations, management of the National Breeding objective and the operation of DIGAD (Dairy Industry Good Animal Database).
About the Role
As a Geneticist, you will contribute directly to the genetic advancement of New Zealand’s dairy sector, translating cutting-edge research into practical tools and resources for farmers. You will work cross-functionally across project teams, providing genetic insights that enhance dairy productivity and sustainability. NZAEL also work with world leading experts to ensure we are providing the best possible AE solutions to the Dairy industry. The role involves collaboration with farmers, rural professionals, industry partners, and key stakeholders to drive the adoption of genetic solutions that make a measurable impact on-farm.

Key Responsibilities

• Farmer & Stakeholder Adoption: Design and support strategies to promote adoption of genetic solutions across New Zealand’s dairy sector. Provide training and technical guidance to farmers, Extension Specialists, and other stakeholders.
• Research: Participate in research initiatives focused on genetic improvement, using advanced research methodologies to generate insights that benefit New Zealand’s dairy industry.
• Technical Delivery: Translate genetic research into practical, user-friendly solutions that drive farm-level impact, offering specialist advice on breeding values and economic indices.
• Project Management: Develop and implement project plans, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery on milestones within budget constraints.
• Stakeholder Management: Lead the engagement with industry stakeholder groups and industry organisations which interact with NZAEL, ensuring our activities align with farmers objectives.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, Applied or Agricultural Science with a focus on animal genetics
• Strong understanding of New Zealand dairy farming systems and key industry issues
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, data analysis, and project management tools

Preferred

• Master’s degree or postgraduate diploma in animal genetics
• Experience in agribusiness extension or consultancy
• Knowledge of genetic evaluation techniques, including statistical methodology

Key Competencies

• Expertise in genetic evaluation and dairy systems
• Strong communication skills with an ability to distil complex information for farmers and stakeholders
• Project management, including planning, scheduling, and stakeholder engagement
• Adaptive problem-solving and relationship management

Position description click here. Applications close 25th November 2024 at 11:55pm

• Farmer & Stakeholder Adoption: Design and support strategies to promote adoption of genetic solutions across New Zealand’s dairy sector. Provide training and technical guidance to farmers, Extension Specialists, and other stakeholders.
• Research: Participate in research initiatives focused on genetic improvement, using advanced research methodologies to generate insights that benefit New Zealand’s dairy industry.
• Technical Delivery: Translate genetic research into practical, user-friendly solutions that drive farm-level impact, offering specialist advice on breeding values and economic indices.
• Project Management: Develop and implement project plans, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery on milestones within budget constraints.
• Stakeholder Management: Lead the engagement with industry stakeholder groups and industry organisations which interact with NZAEL, ensuring our activities align with farmers objectives