Biobank Officer

**When it comes to cancer care, choose hope.**

Chris O’Brien Lifehouse is an internationally recognised independent, not-for-profit cancer hospital leading the way in delivering patient-centered cancer care. It is one of only two comprehensive cancer centers in Australia, characterised by a concentration of world-leading cancer expertise and services in one facility, as well as leadership in clinical care, research, world-leading Biomedical Innovation Hub, and education. The Chris O'Brien Lifehouse model of care is multidisciplinary, patient-centered, and research-based, delivered through integrated and co-located services including Australia’s largest You Can Centre for young people. We seek passionate, caring, and dedicated staff who align with our Founder’s vision of creating a collaborative environment in which, respect, discovery, empowerment, and nurture, thrive in the interests of our patients.

**The Position**

We are seeking to appoint a Biobank Officer for the newly established Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Cancer Biomarker Innovation Hub. Made possible through a generous donation, this new research initiative will accelerate the development of cancer biomarkers from discovery into practice. The program seeks to build a pipeline of cancer biomarker research across multiple tumour streams, driving progress toward a program of clinical trials testing the clinical utility of unique biomarkers and supporting the translation of these into clinical practice.

Working under the leadership of the program’s Co-Directors, the broader program team as well as other internal and external collaborators, the Biobank Officer will contribute to achieving the program’s mission to accelerate the development of cancer biomarkers from research into practice, with a specific focus on supporting research activities relating to the collection, processing and storage of biological samples for research.

Specifically, the Biobank Officer will provide technical assistance in the conduct of high-quality biomarker research, which may include assisting with requests for research specimens, sample retrievals, sample processing, data collection, and other general research administrative support.

Applications are invited from degree qualified laboratory/research professionals with experience in biospecimen collection, processing including Ficoll method and banking, and biospecimen handling in -20, -80 and liquid nitrogen. A dedicated professional with high attention to detail, accuracy in record keeping, and a commitment to quality is sought to contribute meaningfully to this new research hub.

A 1.0 FTE appointment for up to 4 years will be made, with lots of opportunity for growth and development in the role.

**Main Duties**
- Present biobanking activity and progress at internal and external meetings
- Support existing and new biomarker research projects, including biobanking activities and general research administration.
- Provide biobanking technical assistance, which may include management of research specimens (eg. sample retrievals, processing, shipments etc.) as well as management of research data (eg. maintain and update specimen and clinical records, maintain tracking documentation etc.).
- Working with the internal team as well as collaborators at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital pathology department, other pathology departments and medical research institutes.
- Contribute to the operations of the biomarker hub and COBLH biobanking facilities, including improvements/development of research and team processes, structures, systems, tools, and other resources. This includes developing and refining research practices to ensure operational excellence, with a specific focus on technical and regulatory requirements for biobanking and biomarker research.
- General laboratory duties including monitoring stock levels, maintaining laboratory equipment and maintenance of records, contribution to policy and process documentation, reports and correspondence as required.
- Proactively contribute as a member of the biomarker program team, helping to foster a high performing, purpose driven culture, in which diversity of thought, contribution, collaboration, excellence and achieving outcomes are valued and enabled.

**Selection Criteria**
- Degree qualification in science or area relevant to medical research.
- Demonstrated experience working in a laboratory/research environment including the routine handling, storage and retrieval of biological samples.
- Attention to detail, accuracy in record keeping and a commitment to quality including compliance with required policies, processes and regulations.
- Highly developed analytical skills and problem solving skills, with excellent attention to detail.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills, written and verbal communication skills, and negotiating skills.
- Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with key internal and external stakeholders.

**Desirable Qualifications/