Research Assistant - Cancer Genomics and Diagnostic Innovation

Job no: 0057673
Location: Parkville
Role type: Full Time; Fixed term for 2 years
Faculty: Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences 
School: Melbourne Medical School, Clinical Pathology
Salary: Level A – $80,258 - $108,906 p.a. plus 17% super

• Contribute to cutting-edge translational research in cancer genomics.
• Support the development of innovative diagnostic methods for analysing cell-free DNA in the blood of cancer patients.
• Salary packaging, subsidised health and wellbeing services, fitness and cultural clubs, Myki discounts, and a 25% discount on graduate courses to our staff and their immediate families!

About the Role

The Research Assistant will support library preparation for next-generation sequencing, technical evaluation of new methods, sample processing and storage, operational management of the laboratory, data analysis, training and supervision of personnel, adherence to OH&S regulations, and active participation in internal and external training sessions and conferences. The role also involves collaboration with the University of Melbourne's partnership with Illumina and contributing to The Advanced Genomics Collaboration (TAGC) initiative.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Conduct library preparation for next-generation sequencing using various protocols.
• Evaluate new commercial kits and methods through technical assessments with appropriate controls.
• Manage the receiving, processing, and storage of tissue and blood samples, ensuring patient confidentiality and maintaining accurate records.
• Play a key role in the operational management of the laboratory, including inventory tracking, budgeting, and administrative functions.

Who We Are Looking For

You possess a strong understanding of the molecular basis of cancer, demonstrate high technical competency in molecular methods, exhibit excellent attention to detail, and showcase effective communication and interpersonal skills. You have a clear ability to work collaboratively in a small team, learn new techniques, and handle human tissues, and some experience in next-generation sequencing would be advantageous.

You will also have:

• A Bachelor of Science (Honours), Bachelor of Biomedicine (Honours), or a Master’s degree in a relevant biomedical sciences area.
• A high level of technical competency in molecular methods.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, image analysis, statistical software, and database programs.

For further information regarding responsibilities and requirements, please refer to the attached PD.

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires current valid work rights for Australia.

Your New Team – Department of Clinical Pathology

The University of Melbourne's Clinical Pathology Department pioneers cancer research, focusing on molecular tumor defects for improved diagnostics and treatments. Located at the forefront Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, we collaborate extensively, driving advancements in cancer cell biology, DNA bio-banking, and cutting-edge sequencing. Beyond cancer, we shape medical leaders through our Doctor of Medicine program and support vibrant graduate cohorts.

What We Offer You!

In addition, we offer the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community and enjoy a range of benefits, including generous leave provisions, salary packaging, health and well-being services and discounts on graduate courses. For more information, check out our benefits page!

About the University of Melbourne

We’re tightly connected with the community, both at home and abroad. We take pride in our people, who all contribute to our mission to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Discover more via our website and stay connected with our stories and people on LinkedIn.

Be Yourself

The University of Melbourne values the unique backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that each person brings to our community and welcomes and celebrates diversity.  First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. For more information, please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page.

We are dedicated to ensuring barrier free and inclusive practices to recruit the most talented candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments with the recruitment process, please contact the email address listed at the bottom of the page.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants

We aspire to be the University of choice for Indigenous Australians, with unprecedented investment to attract, nurture and retain Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff. Tangible support through a range of programs and initiatives will ensure that you personally succeed and flourish while at the University of Melbourne.

For further information, including our 2023-2027 Indigenous strategy please visit -https://about.unimelb.edu.au/reconciliation/murmuk-djerring

Join Us!

If you feel this role is right for you, please apply with the following documents: 

• Resume
• Cover Letter outlining your interest and experience
• The responses against the Selection Criteria^ (found in the Position Description)

^For information to help you with compiling short statements to answer the selection criteria and competencies, please go to http://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/selection-criteria

If you have any questions regarding the recruitment process, please feel free to contact Katherine Robertson via email at Faculties-TA@unimelb.edu.au, ensuring that you include the Position Number and the Job Title as the subject. Please do not share your application to this email address.

If you have any particular questions regarding the job please follow the details listed on the Position Description.

Applications close: 7 December 2023 11:55 PM Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)

Position Description:  0057673_Research Assistant_PD.pdf