Experimental Scientist (Molecular Biology)

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The opportunity

• Enhance your laboratory and molecular biology experience
• Be a valued part of CSIRO Energy’s Biogeochemistry and Microbiology Team
• Three year fixed term opportunity based in Sydney, NSW

The Biogeochemistry and Microbiology Team within CSIRO Energy is seeking an enthusiastic Experimental Scientist to join the team at Lindfield, NSW. In this role, you will undertake, support and facilitate scientific activities with other research staff, by assisting with maintenance, upkeep, and ongoing experiments (establishing, being conducted) by multiple scientists from multiple groups within the Energy Research Unit (RU). 

You will provide scientific research support for molecular biology, chemistry and microbiology related research projects. Your work will support external industry and strategic research, development and innovation directed at addressing environmental concerns, adding value to Australia’s net-zero emissions plan and renewable energy industries.

You will be based at the Lindfield site, where the laboratories are uniquely positioned due to its provision of molecular biology, microbiology and chemistry infrastructure and instrumentation, which it delivers to a range of Energy RU projects, along with projects in the other RUs co-located at Lindfield.

Your duties will include:

• Assist research scientists, engineers and others in the laboratory in their work in molecular biology, chemistry and microbiology.
• Implement, develop and modify existing methods and procedures following protocols for DNA/RNA extraction, purification, PCR, gel electrophoresis and high throughput amplicon sequencing workflow.
• Undertake analyses using mass spectrometry as required.
• Undertake field work as required.
• Implement, develop and modify instrument methods and experimental protocols for sample testing.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and data.
• Compile and analyse molecular, chemical or microbial experimental data and interpret results.
• Maintain chemical inventories for the microbiology and chemistry laboratories.
• Organise and schedule instrument maintenance and certification, including software updates and licensing.
• Organise and schedule maintenance of safety systems for the geomicrobiology and chemistry laboratories as directed by Laboratory Custodians.
• Other duties as directed.

Location:  Lindfield, Sydney, NSW

Salary:  $93k to $105k pa + 15.4% super

Tenure:  Specified term of 3 years

Reference:  97886

To be considered you will need:

Essential:

• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant work experience in Molecular Biology.
• Experience in high throughput laboratories with repetitive tasks.
• Experience in research support roles or equivalent position.
• Experience with molecular biology procedures for environmental or plant samples (DNA/RNA extractions, purification, PCR, high throughput amplicon sequencing workflow), reagent and media preparation, laboratory and safety maintenance/monitoring.
• Experience with mass spectrometry (LC or GCMS or equivalent)
• Experience with managing repetitive laboratory procedures and risk management of these tasks.
• Full unrestricted driver’s license.

Desirable:

• Experience with analytical chemistry and/or microbiology.
• Microbial culturing and isolation experience, particularly with anaerobic microorganisms.
• Environmental field work experience.

For full details about this role please review the Position Description

Eligibility

Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens, Australian Permanent Residents or you must either hold, or be able to obtain, a valid working visa for the duration of the specified term (until end October 2027). 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

At CSIRO Australia's national science agency, we solve the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. We put the safety and wellbeing of our people above all else and earn trust everywhere because we only deal in facts. We collaborate widely and generously and deliver solutions with real impact. 

CSIRO is committed to values-based leadership to inspire performance and unlock the potential of our people.

Join us and start creating tomorrow today!

How to apply

Please apply on-line and provide a cover letter and CV that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.

Applications close

20 September 2024, 11:00pm AEST