The Deveson Lab aims to develop, adopt, optimise and validate new technologies and methods to address unsolved challenges in genomic medicine. We are leading a groundbreaking project that aims to develop and clinically implement new methods for the diagnosis of patients with inherited diseases, using cutting-edge long-read sequencing technologies. The project will be delivered in partnership with the Sydney Local Health District’s Institute of Precision Medicine and Bioinformatics (IPM&B) and is funded by the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).
THE OPPORTUNITY
We’re looking for an experienced Genomic Scientist to lead the clinical implementation of long-read sequencing tests for inherited diseases. This will be a hands-on laboratory position involving preparation of patient DNA samples, analysis with long-read sequencing instruments from Oxford Nanopore and/or PacBio, and interpretation of results. Additional duties will include the generation of clinical reports and general laboratory administrative tasks.
The successful candidate will receive training and supervision from expert staff in the Deveson Lab at Garvan. They will also work within IPM&B diagnostic labs at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Concord General Repatriation Hospital to deliver long-read sequencing tests in a NATA accredited environment.
The candidate must have strong grounding in molecular biology and a practical understanding of DNA genetic testing. Prior experience working with modern DNA sequencing technologies and familiarity with sequencing data is highly desirable. The candidate must have good communication skills and be able to work individually as well as part of a team.
An ideal candidate would also have experience working in a NATA accredited medical testing environment. The role will be responsible for delivering a range of operational laboratory activities to ensure compliance with operational procedures, quality standards and continual process improvement.
Salary: Up to $109,100 (depending on experience) + 14% super + salary packaging
Employment Type: 1 year fixed-term contract with possibility to extend
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
Depending on level of experience and requirements of the role, a Research Assistant is typically expected to:
1. Scientific Excellence
Prepare and analyse biological samples using long-read sequencing technologies (Oxford Nanopore and PacBio).
Interpret results from long-read sequencing genetic tests and prepare clinical reports.
Contribute to implementation of new methodologies.
Implement and evaluate a range of lab procedures to ensure consistent and accurate application of laboratory practices.
Monitor, manage and interpret QC results, and participate in internal and external QC/QA activities.
Assist with general lab maintenance including stock inventory monitoring and ordering consumables.
2. Team Leadership
Personal Growth: Take responsibility for own professional development by attending workshops and seeking to learn new techniques to support the group’s evolving research needs.
Team Collaboration: Work effectively as a reliable and approachable member of the Deveson Lab, fostering a collaborative environment.
3. Institute Contributions
Values & Integrity: Demonstrate scientific and professional integrity at all times, acting as a role model for ethical behaviour.
Active Participation: Contribute to the wider institute community by participating in committees, outreach projects, or donor activities.
ABOUT YOU
The key skills and experience include:
Essential
Bachelor or higher degree in Science/Biomedical Science or an equivalent qualification
Experience in a molecular biology and/or molecular pathology laboratory
Strong attention to detail, level of accuracy and ability to follow protocols
Excellent organisational, record-keeping, and time management skills
Demonstrated track record of working in a team and having the capacity to deliver results within specified timeframes
Desirable
Experience with long-read sequencing or next-generation sequencing methods
Experience with clinical report writing
Understanding of accreditation and quality assurance requirements that impact the laboratory environment
Familiarity with long-read sequencing or next-generation sequencing data and bioinformatic analysis
Understanding of methods and concepts involved in interpretation of pathogenicity for DNA variants
ABOUT GARVAN
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. We are always looking for culture ‘add’, not culture ‘fit’ and are building diverse teams with great sets of complementary styles and skills to help deliver our important work effectively.
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.
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