Crop Molecular Farming Research Project Officer

Acknowledgement of Country
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The Opportunity
 
•    Collaborate in scientific and technological activities with other research staff 
•    Work at the forefront of one of CSIRO’s new strategic growth areas (Molecular Farming)
•    Black Mountain, Canberra location with relocation assistance available

We’re seeking applications for a Crop Molecular Farming Research Project Officer within the Agriculture and Food Business Unit.  

The CSIRO Synthetic Traits group is world-leading in translating cutting-edge plant biotechnology towards real impact for Australian agriculture. The group’s extensive track record include the development of commercial high-oleic safflower and omega-3 canola together in close collaboration with key industry partners (https://www.csiro.au/en/research/plants/crops/oil-crops/sho-safflower; https://www.csiro.au/en/research/production/biotechnology/omega-3-canola). 

This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of one of CSIRO’s new strategic growth areas (Molecular Farming) and create with us the next generation of high-value engineered crops.
As part of the Lipid Engineering team, you will assist with key aspects of the Crop Molecular Farming initiative: designing and implementing strategies for modifying oil profiles in canola, and designing and synthesizing modified topical RNA molecules to target key metabolic pathways. The position will involve testing of new RNA molecules, including topically-delivered RNAi, canola transformation, cloning of multi-gene plant expression vectors, molecular characterization of transgenic and RNA-treated plants, lipid extraction from seed and sample preparation for GC analysis, and keeping experimental records for reporting requirements.

Your duties will include:
•    Design and build multi-gene expression constructs.
•    Design and preparation of novel RNA molecules to manipulate metabolic pathways.
•    Assist in canola transformation and the growing of transgenic plants in the glasshouse and growth cabinet.
•    Evaluation of gene expression and copy number via digital droplet PCR in RNA-treated plants and transgenic plants.
•    Actively troubleshooting to resolve identified problems, participating in project meetings, recording data in electronic lab notebook form, and working closely in a multidisciplinary team consisting of members across different divisions within CSIRO
•    Communicate openly, effectively and respectfully with all staff, clients and suppliers in the interests of good business practice, collaboration and enhancement of CSIRO's reputation.
•    Adhere to the spirit and practice of CSIRO's Values, Code of Conduct, Health, Safety and Environment procedures and policy and diversity initiatives.

Location: Black Mountain, Canberra, ACT
Salary: $93,267 - $105,517 per annum (pro-rata for part-time) plus up to 15.4% superannuation.
Tenure: Specified Term of 3 years, Full-time
Reference: 97959

To be considered you will need:
Essential
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed.
1.    Relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant work experience in plant molecular biology. 
2.    Molecular and synthetic biology techniques, including designing and cloning of complex multi-gene plant expression vectors.
3.    Plant genetic engineering, including transformation and tissue culture. 
4.    Data collation, analysis and provision of results for inclusion in reports and papers. 

Desirable
1.    Experience with digital droplet PCR for copy number and gene expression analyses. 
2.    Experience with plant lipid metabolism and analysis. 
3.    Managing and supervising the experimental work of a broader technical team

For full details about this role please review the Position Description.  

Eligibility
Applications are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens and Australian Permanent 
Residents, Australian Temporary Residents with an existing valid visa and unrestricted work 
rights for the duration of the 3-year term and no requirement for visa sponsorship.

Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements. 

Flexible Working Arrangements
We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work. 

Diversity and Inclusion
We are working hard to recruit people representing the diversity across our society, and ensure that all our people feel supported to do their best work and feel empowered to let their ideas flourish. 

 
About CSIRO
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How to Apply
Please apply online and provide a detailed cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role. Please note that we strongly encourage you to respond to each of the selection criteria in detail and attach it to your cover letter as one document.

Applications Close
Wednesday, 18th December 2024, 11:00pm AEST