About you

Are you an accomplished research scientist with a talent for hands-on experimental work and method development, and a passion for training others?  Do you have experience with stem cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and a keen interest in technology?  Do you want to work with world-class researchers on the most exciting and cutting-edge cardiovascular studies?

About us

The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute is dedicated to finding cures for cardiovascular disease and is one of the most respected heart research facilities in the world. The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Innovation Centre is comprised of seven cutting-edge Facilities aimed at advancing cardiovascular research. The new technology platforms housed in the innovation centre are allowing us to understand how the heart works at a much deeper level and is facilitating the development of better treatments for cardiovascular disease.
The Stem Cell Production Facility in the Innovation Centre is dedicated to the production, characterisation and differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines, including gene editing, and features high throughput robotic platforms. The Facility is closely integrated with the Cell Function & Screening Facility.

The role

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Research Scientist/Senior Research Scientist to work within the Stem Cell Production Facility of the Innovation Centre. In this role you will be involved in the generation and maintenance of iPSCs and their differentiation to cardiac as well as other cell lineages. You will help develop and operate our state-of-the-art robotics platforms. A strong background in mammalian tissue culture, iPSC production, gene editing and other relevant disciples will enable you to collaboratively develop new methods/applications to meet Facility user requirements. 

Responsibilities

• Generation, maintenance, and characterisation of human iPSC lines
• QC validation of iPSC lines and differentiation into cardiac and other cell lineages
• Gene editing of iPSC lines
• Training of users in iPSC culture, maintenance, QC and differentiation
• The development, operation, and QC of robotic platforms for iPSC culture, differentiation and gene editing
• Facility and equipment management and maintenance 
• Generation of SOPs and SWPs 
• Support of Facility users in a collaborative and harmonious manner
• Participation in consultation, capability promotion and cost estimation activities with potential new users, internally and externally
• Collation of metrics and preparation of reports and invoices

Selection Criteria

Research Scientist:

• A Bachelor or Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences.
• Demonstrated technical training in mammalian cell culture.
• Demonstrated technical training in molecular biology and cell biology techniques 
• Experience in hESC or iPSC culture and differentiation.
• Experience in gene editing (i.e. CRISPR, viral transduction) required
• Experience with robotic platforms, including robotic programming expertise highly desirable.
• Experience in a facility/service role highly desirable.

Senior Research Scientist:
All of the criteria above (including those designated highly desirable), AND

• A PhD in Biomedical Sciences.
• Extensive experience in the development of new methodology, including design and validation.
• Experience with developing and modifying code for automated systems.
• Experience training researchers in laboratory techniques.
• Experience managing junior staff.
• Facility management experience highly desirable.

What we offer:

• Competitive salary commensurate with skills and experience.
• Very attractive salary packaging.
• State-of-the-art facilities.
• Projects based on technologies at the forefront of industry.
• Stimulating work setting focused on cutting edge medical research.
• Collaborative team environment.

We strive to ensure our staff and students enjoy a great working environment. We value and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces diversity and gender equity and promotes flexible working arrangements for staff to balance working requirements and personal needs.

Come and work with us & help make a difference.