Senior Regulatory Scientist – Food Science. FSANZ Canberra ACT or Wellington NZ.
About the Role
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is seeking a highly motivated individual with a strong background in food science and technology to join the New Foods section. This opportunity is ideal for those looking to apply their expertise in a meaningful role within the food regulatory system.
The Senior Regulatory Scientist will operate in a multidisciplinary environment, collaborating and engaging on applications and proposals to amend the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, as well as contributing to related projects. This position calls for a self-motivated person capable of providing leadership with minimal oversight. Responsibilities include project management and risk analysis, whether working as part of a team or as the project lead.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate proven experience in project management, possess solid technical knowledge in a relevant scientific discipline, and have well-developed analytical capabilities. Strong written and verbal communication skills are crucial, as is the capacity to interact effectively with individuals and teams throughout FSANZ, as well as with a broad spectrum of external stakeholders.
A tertiary qualification in food science, food technology, chemistry/biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related chemical or biological discipline from an Australian or New Zealand institution (or an equivalent international qualification), together with demonstrated relevant work experience is highly desirable.
The role is based in either Canberra Australia or Wellington New Zealand as a non-ongoing position until the end of June 2027.
The Team
The primary role of the New Foods section is to manage the assessment of applications and proposals to amend the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code related to genetically modified foods, cell-cultured foods and other novel foods. Team members in the New Foods section have expertise in biotechnology and food technology and contribute their expertise to the risk analysis of a wide range of foods and food additives. In addition, the New Foods section works internationally to contribute to global food standards set by the Codex Alimentarius, and the development harmonised risk assessment approaches to new foods by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
The Duties
The duties of this position include:
Applying the FSANZ Risk Analysis Framework to critically analyse scientific and other evidence as part of the assessment of applications and proposals to amend the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.
Preparing or coordinating the preparation of high-quality technical reports and regulatory documents related to the above.
Under limited direction, managing scientific, regulatory or other projects in the agency as required, including liaising with and coordinating input from multidisciplinary and often geographically dispersed teams.
Representation of FSANZ at intergovernmental meetings (domestic and international) and relevant professional and stakeholder forums as required.
Providing information and advice on general correspondence and new foods to FSANZ, other government agencies, Ministerial offices, the food industry, health professionals, and consumers.
Working proactively to maintain relationships with relevant State, Territory, Australian and New Zealand government agencies on food standards and related matters.
Supervising and mentoring junior staff as required.
Any other duties and projects as required by the Section Manager of the New Foods section.
About Us
At Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), we develop world-leading standards to ensure a safe food supply for Australia and New Zealand. We do so by maintaining an effective, transparent and accountable regulatory framework. Our work includes analytical and behavioural research, the development of food standards, food incident response, education and public awareness, and corporate services. This work is essential for protecting consumers and dealing with the challenges of a globalised and rapidly evolving food sector.
FSANZ is a small agency with a specialised workforce. As the only bi-national agency in the Australian public sector, we have the unique opportunity to work across both Australia and New Zealand. To support our varied work, FSANZ engages employees from an array of specialist backgrounds, including scientific, technical and corporate staff.
We value diversity in gender, backgrounds, culture, and experience and are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute, participate and progress. We encourage and welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Māori peoples, people with disability, LGBTQIA+ people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and mature age people.
For more information about the benefits, culture and strategic direction of FSANZ see our careers homepage.
Selection Criteria
Candidates will be assessed according to their capacity to undertake the duties of the position outlined above.
Requirements
The successful candidate must have:
A tertiary qualification in food science, food technology, chemistry/biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related chemical or biological discipline from an Australian or New Zealand institution (or an equivalent international qualification), together with demonstrated relevant work experience.
Knowledge and experience in food risk analysis (risk assessment, risk management and risk communication) is highly desirable.
How to Apply
In order to apply, you need to submit your application through the FSANZ careers portal. The portal will guide you through the application process and describe what information is required from you.
To be eligible you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen at the time of applying.
Questions regarding the opportunity should be directed to the position contact below:
If you require further information, please email Human.Resources@foodstandards.gov.au.
Applications close 11:30 pm AEST on Wednesday, 29 July 2026.
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