The search is on again for people, passionate about the grains industry, who would like to work with the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) to contribute to the continuing development of the organization.

The corporation is looking for members for the three Regional Panels - one each from the northern, southern and western cropping zones - that advise it on grains research priorities.

Vic Dobos, the GRDC's executive manager for communications and customer services, says, while most panel members so far have been growers and researchers, the corporation would like to encourage broader industry representation.

"This year, besides looking for leading growers and researchers as we always have, we would like to encourage applications from people throughout the supply chain, including the marketing, handling, input supply, processing and food sectors of the grains industry," Mr Dobos said.

"We'd also like to hear from any interested consultants and advisers, and from finance, business and natural resource managers, all of whom have increasingly significant roles in the evolving grains industry.

"We need people who can commit 40 days a year to GRDC panel activities, and who have experience in working with growers and previous involvement in grains industry related R&D and the adoption of new technology and practices.

"We'd also like them to be able to demonstrate extensive industry networks, an understanding of its business environment, issues and challenges, verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work effectively in teams and groups."

Mr Dobos said members of the new regional panels would have a wider communication role than in the past, speaking to growers at field days and other functions to improve overall awareness of the GRDC's role in the grains industry and of the benefits flowing from its research investments.

Panel members were paid for time spent on GRDC business and for travel. They were usually appointed for three years, met at least five times a year and travelled to different parts of their respective regions to consult with industry and the research community.

"The full job description, selection criteria and application details are on the GRDC website www.grdc.com.au," Mr Dobos said.

"Interested applicants can also contact panel officers Shona Tidswell or Tom McCue on 02 6272 5525."