Forensic Analyst

**Job no**: 512195

**Employment type**: Ongoing

**Location**: Sydney

**Categories**: APS Level 4, Science, Engineering, Technical

**About the National Measurement Institute**:
We are the Australian Government’s national authority on measurement. We play an important role in the Australian economy by leading, maintaining and regulating Australia’s measurement system. We deliver world-class measurement products, advice and client services and administer the regulatory framework for measurement. Our national measurement standards are recognised internationally and we work to enhance and maintain these standards.

We value the different skills, knowledge and perspectives our employees bring. We’re committed to giving everyone an equal opportunity to participate, contribute and progress. Our values and behaviours centre on being, adaptable, innovative, accountable, strategic, inclusive and influential.

**About the team**:
The Chemical and Biological Metrology Branch provides measurement standards such as certified reference materials. These include pure chemicals, gas standards, matrix materials and DNA standards. The branch also co-ordinates proficiency testing programs to assist laboratories assess their ongoing quality and performance. The branch houses three of Australia’s national testing laboratories for anti-doping, forensic drugs and ultra-trace analysis. The branch delivers services across all of these fields and carries out research and development to enhance our capabilities in line with national and international requirements.

The National Measurement Institutes’ (NMI’s) Australian Forensic Drug Laboratory (AFDL) is a team of scientists providing forensic science services to government agencies such as the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Border Force (ABF). The AFDL performs routine identification and quantification of illicit drugs seized by the AFP and ABF for prosecution, reporting and intelligence purposes. The AFDL also performs chemical profiling of illicit drugs to determine geographical origin of cultivated drugs and the synthetic route of manufactured drugs. This forms the basis of strategic and tactical intelligence reports used by law enforcement to assist drug trafficking disruption.
- Hold a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Chemistry or Forensic Science from a recognised university
- Demonstrate an understanding of analytical chemistry and experience in advanced organic analytical techniques, such as;
- gas chromatography,
- liquid chromatography,
- mass spectrometry,
- infrared spectroscopy,
- nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
- Have prior knowledge of the chemistry pertaining to illicit substances, including precursor chemicals used in the manufacture of amphetamine type stimulants such as methylamphetamine.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others, learn and respond constructively to feedback, and contribute to the team’s performance
- Demonstrable knowledge of the chemistry pertaining to illicit substances including methamphetamine.
- Good communication skills with the ability to accurately document results and observations, and present scientific evidence in court
- Ability to conduct complex analysis with limited supervision showing judgement in problem-solving and decision-making
- Experience working in a NATA accredited forensic laboratory and familiarity with ISO 17025 (Forensics)

**What you will do**:
As a profiling scientist, you will work as part of a team who undertake analysis of methamphetamine samples in order to determine synthetic route. Using a variety of analytical techniques including NMR, GC-MS, UPLC and IRMS, you will undertake analyses on methamphetamine samples submitted by the AFP. The results of your analyses will form the basis of strategic and tactical intelligence reports supplied to the AFP and other agencies.

You will also undertake analyses on drug seizures and controlled substances in order to identify the substance and confirm its purity. The results of these chemical analyses form the basis of evidential statements required by law enforcement.

You will also participate in other laboratory activities that impact on the Laboratory Quality System, including:

- Operating and maintaining scientific instrumentation
- Preparing reference material solutions
- Processing raw analytical data
- Preparing reports based on evidential analysis
- Providing evidence in court
- Working with senior staff to assist in the development and validation of analytical methods
- Provision of support and advice to the team and the broader NMI, mentoring staff and inputting into multidisciplinary projects
- Actively contribute to a positive and healthy workplace promoting a culture of inclusivity that embraces collaboration, respect and values diversity

**Eligibility**:
A Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Chemistry or Forensic Science from a recognised university.

**Notes**:
A merit pool may b