Cytometry Scientist

Overview

Reporting to the Cytometry Manager (CM), the Cytometry Scientist provides an important part in the efficient operation of the Cytometry facility, primarily including, but not limited to, performing instrument QC, maintenance of instruments, instrument training, cell sorting, delivery of services, and assistance where required at Westmead Cytometry.

The role provides scientific support, advice, and technical guidance to users to enable scientificresearch goals to be advanced.

The facility is at the leading edge of cytometry and this position is integral in ensuring it continues to advance and develop.

Scientific Platforms represent a centre of excellence within the Westmead Hub and includesGenomics, Proteomics, Histology, Flow Cytometry, Cell Imaging, Bioinformatics, Proteomics,Advanced Microscopy, EM and Biological Services. The mission of the Scientific Platforms is todeliver high-quality scientific support to enable and expand research capabilities at Westmead andbeyond. The team provides a safe, welcoming, collaborative, support-oriented environment wherescientific research goals can be further advanced and important discoveries pioneered.

Responsibilities

Technical Support and Equipment Management

- Operate and maintain technical equipment and instrumentation to ensure availability, quality control, and access for researchers (internal, affiliates, and commercial).

- Tasks may include:

- Preparing, setting up, calibrating, and configuring equipment and instruments

- Assisting with maintenance and servicing of equipment and work areas

- Troubleshooting and providing technical support

- Managing consumables

Software and Image Analysis Support

- Develop expertise in cytometry acquisition and analysis software and provide user support (e.g., FlowJo, FACSDiVa, SpectroFlo, R studio).

Research and Scientific Services

- Provide technical support and scientific services to facilitate research.

- Work with PPMS and other relevant systems in the administration, documentation, booking, compliance and auditing of projects.

- Monitor and report on project progress, identify issues, and ensure the efficient operation of the facility.

- Prepare reports to support facility improvements and evaluate core facility utilisation and efficiency.

Training and Compliance

- Assist in training staff and researchers to ensure safe and effective use of laboratory equipment, instruments, systems, and techniques.

- Training areas including:

- Induction to technical areas

- New user and refresher training

- Software, data processing, storage, and analysis requirements

- Work Health & Safety (WHS) and Safe Work Procedures (SWP) policies and compliance

- Comply with the Institute’s Code of Conduct, policies and procedures.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

- Collaborate with specialists, bioinformaticians, and researchers to develop and implement novel techniques and workflows, including analysis pipelines.

- Maintain a repository for core facility protocols, techniques, and technical knowledge.

- Develop and update manuals and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Research and Grant Support

- Provide guidance on experimental design and data analysis requirements for grant proposals.Institutional and Safety Compliance

- Adhere to WIMR’s Code of Conduct, policies, and procedures.

- Meet role-specific objectives and performance measures, participating positively in performance and development reviews.

- Demonstrate a commitment to safety by taking reasonable precautions and cooperating with health and safety initiatives.

Cross-Training and Additional Responsibilities

- Participate in cross-training for other technologies and provide support in other core facilities as needed to ensure efficient service delivery.

- Perform other duties relevant to the role’s key accountabilities and the Scientific Platform Objectives, as approved by the CM.

- Assist in the rollout of new services to researchers as assigned by the manager.

Qualifications

Education/Experience

- Tertiary qualification with at least a bachelor’s degree in science or an equivalent recognised qualification. A BSc (Hons)/MSc/PhD in a relevant discipline, or an equivalent recognised qualification or experience in the operation of cytometry equipment, is desirable.

- Relevant experience in biological sample preparation, and the application of flow cytometry techniques to research projects.

Skills/Knowledge

- Experience in the operation of cytometry instruments including systems such as the BD FACS CantoII, BD Fortessa, BD Symphony, BC Cytoflex, and Cytek Aurora.

- Knowledge in flow cytometry data analysis software, FACSDiVa, FlowJo, FCSexpress, SpectroFlo or equivalent for data processing and presentation.

- Immunological knowledge enabling identification and phenotyping of multiple cell populations.

- Able to work independently in a safe manner while managing competing work priorities.

- Able to communicate effectively with a variety of technical and non-technical audiences.

- Demonstrated commitment to safety within the laboratory setting and understanding of PC2 requirements/standards.

Behaviors/Attributes

- High enthusiasm and scientific curiosity coupled with a desire to keep up-to-date with novel technologies, acquisition and sample prep methods and tools.

- Demonstrates ethical, honest and trustworthy behaviour.

- Excellent attention to detail.

- Committed to data confidentiality and privacy.

- A willingness to actively contribute to the development of a positive workplace culture.

About WIMR

At the Westmead Institute for Medical Research (WIMR), we focus on tackling real-world health challenges through research that leads to tangible clinical outcomes. Our work spans cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and neurological conditions, with the goal of turning scientific breakthroughs into treatments that improve lives.

We specialise in precision medicine, leveraging advanced technologies such as gene and cell therapies, bacteriophage and plasmid therapies, islet transplantation, bioinformatics, regenerative medicine, and genomics. Our discoveries progress to first-in-human clinical trials through partnerships with the Westmead Health Precinct and national collaborators, ensuring rapid translation into patient care. Beyond the clinic, we work closely with industry partners to bridge gaps in healthcare, ensuring that new therapies and innovations reach those who need them most, on a global scale.

- Unmatched Clinical Access and Global Impact – Conduct research with direct access to patient samples and clinical networks within the Westmead Health Precinct, ensuring rapid translation of discoveries into real-world treatments that benefit diverse populations.

- Collaborative and High-Impact Research Environment – Be part of a multidisciplinary team of leading scientists and clinician-researchers, tackling complex health challenges and turning precision medicine innovations into transformative therapies.

- Cutting-Edge Technology and Infrastructure – Work in a state-of-the-art research facility equipped with world-leading platforms and specialised research capabilities. Our cutting-edge resources support biobanking, bioinformatics, bioresources, cytometry, electron microscopy, genomics, histology, imaging, preclinical imaging, and biomedical proteomics, enabling groundbreaking discoveries and medical advancements. Our latest technological investments include:

- Xenium and CytAssist – Combining genomics with ultra-high-resolution imaging to map individual cells in tissue biopsies, aiding precision treatments for transplant rejection and disease progression.

- Rhapsody System – Analysing the genetic signatures of thousands of individual cells at once, identifying critical drug-resistant tumour cells and advancing cancer and transplant therapies.

- QIAcuity Digital PCR System – Enabling ultra-sensitive detection of genetic material, allowing for early disease detection and precise patient monitoring for infections and genetic disorders.

- VS200 Slide Scanner – Enhancing microscopic imaging contrast for detailed disease analysis, accelerating early diagnosis and treatment development, particularly in cancer research.

- World-Class Facilities and Work Environment – Conduct research in a modern, award winning, and architecturally designed building, featuring a professional café, secure bike storage, showering amenities, and state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, providing a comfortable and well-equipped environment for innovation and collaboration.

- Flexible work arrangement (via agreement with management)

- Close to public transport, including the Parramatta Light Rail

- Not-for-profit ability to salary sacrifice for tax benefits

- Option for novated leasing

- Paid parental leave program

- Access to employee assistance program

Applications close on 23 November 2025

The Westmead Institute for Medical Research is committed to workplace equity, diversity and inclusion. We value and acknowledge the importance of our people’s diverse experiences, talents and cultures that they bring to work with them each day. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of attracting and retaining talent in our workforce. The creation of a diverse and inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential, enhance our success and achieving our vision to improve health outcomes.

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