Research Projects Officer in Experimental Insect Functional Biology

• Conduct insect manipulation, bioassays, tissue dissections, biomolecule extractions, and execute biochemical assays
• Play a pivotal role in understanding molecular & biochemical processes in insects around circular economy domains such as ‘plastic degradation’ and ‘waste to protein conversion’
• Join Australia’s national science agency! Work on projects of significant national and global impact

The Environment business unit at CSIRO is looking to appoint a Research Projects Officer in Experimental Insect Functional Biology. The role is centered around insect manipulation, bioassays, conducting tissue dissections, and performing DNA/RNA extractions, along with the execution of various biochemical assays. Under the supervision of, and in collaboration with senior researchers in the Industry Environments Program, the role will play a vital part in understanding of molecular and biochemical processes in insects around various circular economy research domains such as “plastic degradation” and “waste to protein conversion” by insects.

Key responsibilities of the position include conducting bioassays for the growth and degradation of various food substrates as well as xenobiotic chemicals such as plastic by various insect species. The Officer will also be actively involved in the design and execution of experiments focused on insect feeding, tissue dissections, and the extraction of biomolecules (such as DNA, RNA, protein, lipid etc.). Additionally, the role encompasses conducting biochemical assays, contributing to the advancement of research in this field.

A demonstrated proficiency in molecular biology and genomic data analysis tasks will be a distinct advantage in fulfilling the responsibilities associated with the insect bioassays, tissue dissections, DNA/RNA extractions, and biochemical assays. This role is integral to CSIRO's ongoing efforts to unlock the full potential of insect as engineers for environmental applications, contributing to innovative and sustainable solutions in waste management.