Careers

Precision Agriculture Research Manager

 

(Posted 28 October 2011, closing date for applications 04 December 2011.)

 

Precision Agriculture’s time has arrived in New Zealand.  We need to be able to grow and produce more, but not at excess cost to the environment.  Lincoln Ventures Ltd and Massey University want to further contribute to this vital and challenging area of agri-science research in New Zealand.
Lincoln Ventures Ltd (LVL) and Massey University (MU), have embarked on an exciting new initiative in Precision Agriculture (PA) collaboration and research.  We require an enthusiastic PA specialist who can lead a research team and interact with farmers, the agritech sector, and primary industry organizations interested in research in this sector.
LVL is owned by Lincoln University and is a research and development company with a track record for applying new and innovative engineering and science technologies to enhance New Zealand’s agriculture, industry and environment.  LVL and MU have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate in PA research.  Reporting to the Chief Scientist at LVL, and in consultation with Professor Ian Yule from MU, you will be responsible for establishing a Precision Agriculture (PA) research capability within LVL. Professor Yule has been at the forefront of PA research in New Zealand for many years.  It is anticipated that joint research projects will be identified and conducted in collaboration with MU and other LVL staff, who have developed a range of smart sensors and measurement technologies, as well as with Lincoln University researchers.
This is an important strategic initiative for LVL and over time we would like you to build a team of PA researchers.  You will be responsible for identifying the strategic direction of the research, securing  funding, conducting  research, and hiring  researchers to establish this group.
You will have experience in PA research together with postgraduate qualifications in PA or a related discipline, and knowledge of farming systems.  You will demonstrate a strategic approach to research and have experience in,  or a desire to lead a research team and attract funding.  You will also possess the ability to interact effectively with government, the farming sector and funding bodies.
The research will be appropriate for the New Zealand primary sector and directed toward application, metering and control technology, sensor development, as well as equipment and controls used in site specific management.  Research may also include the analysis of management technologies that provide decision support for managing spatial and temporal variability.
Lincoln Ventures Ltd is based at the Lincoln University campus approx 20km west of Christchurch.  There may be some flexibility on location for the right candidate with Hamilton and Palmerston North being options.
For further information, including a position description, please email or phone Yvonne de Vries on (+64 3) 325 3701.  To apply, please email your CV and a covering letter to yvonne.devries@lvl.co.nz before 04 December 2011.