Garvan Institute of Medical Research brings together world leading scientists and clinicians, collaborating locally and globally, to advance our understanding of disease, particularly cancer, autoimmunity and genetic disorders. Garvan is a global leader in fundamental biomedical research and its translation. Our mission is to make discoveries that will improve health for all.

Through our key scientific strengths in data, genomics, cellular, translation and clinical science, we aim to catalyse research from fundamental discovery to transformational impact. Enabled by cutting-edge technology and world-class facilities and the support of our passionate Garvan family, our researchers and professional staff strive every day to create a future where everyone lives longer, healthier lives.

THE OPPORTUNITY

We are seeking a talented research assistant to join the Powell Lab: Translational Genomics Program under the guidance of senior research staff. Our lab uses cellular genomics to study cancer, autoimmune diseases and stem cell research. The successful applicant will work with other research assistants, PhD students, post-docs, and clinicians to process and analyse human samples. To be successful, the applicant must have basic wet laboratory experience, particularly in molecular biology and handling human samples. We are looking for an independent, enthusiastic and flexible person willing to work as part of a large team.

The program focuses on understanding the impact of human genetic variation on diseases at the level of individual cells and using this information to develop a translational impact on human health. We have developed globally leading single-cell and genomic data cohorts to achieve this in multiple cell systems (immune, stem cells, lung, and cancers). By analysing this data and other experimental validation, we develop companion tests to inform therapy choice and, excitingly, identify cell-specific novel therapeutic targets.

Salary: From $81,200 - $91,100 + 14% superannuation + salary packaging (depending on experience)

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

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Key responsibilities include:

Assist with single-cell genomics assays from human cell samples.

Perform molecular biology experiments using established protocols. Where relevant, work on the optimisation of protocols.

Documentation and Records: Help maintain comprehensive records of all project molecular requirements and techniques. Interface with LIMS software

Provide support for the Lab and Research manager in daily lab tasks.

Assist in daily laboratory operations, including maintaining lab supplies and equipment, organisation and cleanliness.

ABOUT YOU

The key skills and experience include:

University degree in a relevant area of science or health-related discipline.

2 or more years of experience in a research laboratory or clinical laboratory setting.

Highly organised and excellent communicator.

The ability to assess priorities and manage competing deadlines. Excellent written and oral communication, representation and interpersonal skills to interact with internal and external stakeholders.

Ability to manage competing responsibilities

An ability to work independently and efficiently within a diverse team.

Strong creative thinking, problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Punctuality.

Desirable skills include:

Experience in molecular biology techniques

Experience with single-cell genomics technologies

Experience in collection and processing of human blood and tissue specimens.

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.

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.