Laboratory Scientist

The Garvan Institute has supported genomic sequencing in Australia since 2012. As one of the five platforms of the research precinct, the Sequencing Platform offers nationally accredited short-read sequencing services for genomics and transcriptomics to clients across Australia and New Zealand.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Laboratory Scientist position is an onsite role within the Garvan Sequencing Platform and will primarily be responsible for the day-to-day processing of samples submitted for Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). Specifically, they will perform key laboratory processes including – but not limited to – nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, clustering and sequencing, QC run review, and assistance with troubleshooting. This is a 1-year term contract.

SNAPSHOT OF BENEFITS

• Generous salary packaging to save you income tax on your wages thereby boosting your monthly take home pay (max. $15,900 general expenses + $2,650 meals/accom)

• Ample opportunities for on-going training and development

• Stimulating, diverse and highly international research environment

• Flexible work arrangements e.g. start / finish times

• 18 weeks paid parental leave for both parents including paid superannuation

• A range of additional leave types to meet your personal needs including cultural leave, conference leave, community service and study leave

• Discounted Health Insurance

• Lifestyle discounts with our community partners

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Undertake work in a high-throughput and dynamic NGS laboratory

• Ensure that all information is appropriately tracked through the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

• Handle and monitor key performance indicators for assays and instrumentation, such as QC and sequencing run metrics

• Participate in the development of new processes and procedures – including wet lab validation, documentation writing and implementation

• Proactively research or improve lab protocols to increase efficiency, or to minimise risks and potential issues associated with lab activities

• Perform routine laboratory maintenance procedures, such as inventory management and equipment maintenance

• Troubleshoot laboratory issues, as required

• Other lab-associated duties, as delegated

• Actively participate in Garvan Sequencing Platform meetings, in addition to internal and external stakeholder meetings (as required)

ABOUT YOU

• Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology or Genetics

• At least 2 years of experience in molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction and NGS methods (experience with Illumina technology is preferred)

• Experience in the maintenance of quality management systems in a regulated (ISO) environment preferred

• Experience in operating, maintaining and troubleshooting liquid handling systems preferred

• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as within a team environment

• Strong creative thinking and problem-solving skills

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in a diverse, multicultural environment required

• Ability to multitask, along with an orientation toward teamwork and cooperation essential

ABOUT GARVAN

The Garvan Institute of Medical Research is an independent Medical Research Institute (MRI) in Sydney, delivering scientific and clinical impact on a global basis and in partnership with organisations that share our vision. We are proud to be one of Australia’s largest and most highly regarded MRI’s.

Our vision is global leadership in discoveries to impact and our enduring purpose is to impact human health, by harnessing information encoded in our genome.

We seek to see our world-class discovery research achieve life-changing impacts, not only for individual patients with rare diseases, but for the many thousands affected by complex, common disease.

Garvan promotes a diverse workplace and is committed to the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for this position, please submit your application with a CV and cover letter as one document, stating why you are interested in this role. We are reviewing applications as they are received. If you think you’re the right person for this role, we’d love to hear how your capabilities, achievements and experience set you apart. Only applicants with full working rights in Australia are eligible to apply for this role.