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Research Assistant – Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Garvan Institute of Medical Research
Full-time
On-site
Australia

The Gut Immunogenomics Lab uses cellular genomics and microbial sequencing to study inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer. At Gut Immunogenomics Lab, we have demonstrated the cellular and microbial diversity of the human colon at steady-state and during IBD, providing unprecedented insights into the complex interactions contributing to disease onset and progression. Our current work identifies specific cell identities driving the onset of active disease and how these cells contribute to the distinct anatomical patterning of inflammation in IBD. The Research Assistant will play a critical role in validating these findings through spatial transcriptomics and protein-based assays.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Research Assistant, Level 1 to 8 is accountable for conducting experiments within their Research Platform.  The Research Assistant will collect, process and analyse patient samples, and support laboratory management. We also expect the candidate to work on interdisciplinary research projects within the team. Approximately 0.4 of this role will involve laboratory management. This is a 2 year term contract with the possibility to extend. Salary is based on experience, we are open to reviewing candidates with one year experience or more.

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/accommodation)

  • Ample opportunities for ongoing training and development

  • Stimulating, diverse and highly international research environment

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

  • 18 weeks of 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

  • Conduct experiments under supervision or independently depending on experience.

  • Coordinate efficiently with clinical partners to collect, process, and manage patient specimens.

  • Support ethics applications.

  • Assist with single-cell genomics assays following established protocols and optimizing as necessary.

  • Perform molecular techniques such as immunofluorescence, metabolomics and flow cytometry.

  • Maintain rigorous documentation and records of all experimental procedures and outcomes.

  • Create and present reports on scientific findings.

  • Support the daily operational needs of the lab, including managing supplies and equipment, and ensuring lab organization and cleanliness.

  • Regularly attend meetings with the wider Research Platform community as required.

  • Adhere to Garvan’s workplace and safety policies, promoting a culture of safety first.

ABOUT YOU

The key skills and experience include:

  • Bachelors’ Degree in Science or Medicine (1st Class Honours) or related health field;

  • Competent computer skills (Excel, Word & PowerPoint)

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

  • Experience in handling clinical specimens, flow cytometry, cryosectioning of tissues and microscopic analysis are bonuses.

  • 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 and dedication to medical research.

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.