• Work with university researchers, research institutes, and industry partners to contribute to RNA innovation projects at the RNA Innovation Foundry.
• Support high-quality, scalable mRNA manufacturing and innovation in growing the WA biotechnology sector.
• Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for 12 months.
• Base salary range: $80,243 – $88,940 p.a. (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

The newly established Australian Centre for RNA Therapeutics in Cancer (ACRTC) at The University of Western Australia (UWA) facilitates collaborations between RNA innovators, oncologists, consumers, and patient advocates. The aim is to design, synthesise, test, and improve RNA products for cancer treatment. To support the ACRTC as well as local external customers, a dedicated RNA manufacturing facility called the RNA Innovation Foundry has been fully funded by the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Scheme, the WA state government and UWA. The RNA Innovation Foundry focuses on manufacturing quality mRNA suitable for pre-clinical research that negates the need for individual laboratories to establish and maintain their own production. The facility will provide scale-up manufacturing capacity for RNA products to WA customers and support therapeutic research translation.

About the opportunity

• Provide technical design and support to the RNA manufacturing workflow of the RNA Innovation Foundry (RIF).
• Contribute to discussions with key stakeholders on ongoing and new projects on mRNA design and manufacturing.
• Work between experimental design and execution of molecular biology aspects of the mRNA production workflow.
• Perform optimisation of manufacturing procedures for best practice, including compiling reports comprising the results and interpretations of experiments.

About you

• Relevant tertiary qualification in a relevant field such as genetics or biochemistry with knowledge of RNA biology.
• Substantial experience in molecular biology methods and laboratory skills, including in-vitro transcription, DNA/RNA extraction and purification, PCR, cell culture, microscopy, transfection.
• Highly developed organisational skills with the demonstrated ability to set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, show initiative, problem solve and work productively as part of a team.
• Experience in bio-manufacturing under quality management systems is desirable.

Position description: Research Officer 519715.docx

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Dr Olga Shimoni at [email protected]

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Tuesday, 18 March 2025.

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, please contact the Talent team at [email protected] with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number.