Research Officer (Molecular Biology/Malaria Parasitology)

Apply now Job no:520946
Work type:full time
Location:Sydney, NSW
Categories:Research Administration support, Laboratory Technician

Research Officer (Molecular Biology/Malaria Parasitology)

Employment Type: Full time (35 hour a week)

Duration: 1-year Fixed Term contract

Remuneration: $96K - $103K p.a. (+17% superannuation and leave loading)

Location: Kensington, NSW

The Organisation

The School of Biomedical Sciences (SBMS) within the Faculty of Medicine & Health is one of the largest teaching and research intensive Schools at UNSW. It is a vibrant School, a place of work for over 240 staff, more than 150 higher degree students, and many thousands of undergraduate students. As well as its location in the Wallace Wurth building the School is physically linked to the Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, which includes access to advanced imaging equipment through the Katharina Gaus Light Microscopy Facility as well as flow cytometry. SBMS also maintains close linkages with the Lowy Cancer Research Centre, the Kirby Institute, the Biological Sciences Building and Single Molecule Science.

The Baum lab (www.baumlab.com ) within SBMS aims to translate fundamental discoveries in parasite biology into interventions that will aid the control and eventual eradication of malaria; the lab is passionate about fundamental discovery research, point-of-care diagnostics and the long-hoped for dream of an efficacious, easy to deploy malaria vaccine.

Why this role matters  

The position will provide technical and research assistance to senior research staff in activities associated with various elements of research projects, including contribution and application of knowledge in the field of molecular biology, parasitology and computational biology within the School of Biomedical Sciences, the Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney.

Your skills and experience:

• A university degree in biological, biomedical, biotechnological or computer-science or a related discipline, or an equivalent level of knowledge gained through a combination of education, training or experience.
• Direct experience in advanced molecular biology techniques (including PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA extraction and design of primers & preferably LAMP), advanced malaria parasitology experience (including in vitro culture of malaria parasites and their interaction with mosquitoes in a lab setting) and/or direct experience of computational approaches for protein structure design and analysis (including the coding of an application of AlphaFold or other related deep learning approaches to protein structure).
• Knowledge of research protocols, experimental design and planning as involved in developing research projects and reporting against milestones.
• Experience working with a range of computer systems and applications, including LabArchives or other alternative data storage systems.
• Demonstrated superior interpersonal communication skills to initiate and maintain effective stakeholder relationships whilst exercising discretion and confidentiality.
• Excellent time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to respond to changing priorities, manage multiple tasks and meet competing deadlines by using judgement and initiative.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail and the ability to liaise effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and productively within a team, but also to take initiative and work independently while managing competing demands.

Benefits and Culture: 

UNSW offer a competitive salary and access to a plethora of UNSW-perks including:​ 

• 17% Superannuation and leave loading​ 
• Flexible working ​ 
• Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas Period​ 
• Access to lifelong learning and career development ​ 
• Progressive HR practices​ 

More information on the great staff benefits and culture can be found here.   

How to apply:

Please click Apply now to submit your application online. Applications should not be sent to the contact listed below.

Please provide a resume and a cover letter briefly addressing the criteria listed in the position description.

Contact (job related questions only)

Professor Jake Baum, Head of School of Biomedical Sciences

E: [email protected]

Applications close:  Tuesday, 2nd January 2024 before 11.30pm.

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff.

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Advertised:04 Dec 2023 AUS Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:02 Jan 2024 AUS Eastern Daylight Time